Holiday Fun Facts

Holiday Fun Facts (That Double as Estate Planning Conversation Starters)

Picture this: the house is decorated, the food is in the oven, and the family is finally under one roof. It’s the perfect time for… an argument about who gets Grandma’s china.

Let’s avoid that.

You don’t have to bring up wills and trusts over turkey — though if someone starts a debate about cranberry sauce, it might be the perfect distraction-free moment. A relaxed chat about your hopes, values, and “what ifs” can make future decisions so much easier for the people you love. If anything here sparked a question (or a tiny flutter of worry), let’s talk. One simple conversation now can spare your family confusion later — and that might just be the best gift you give them this year, right behind the pumpkin pie.Here are some light, holiday-themed facts you can sprinkle into conversation — each with a simple estate planning question attached. You don’t have to turn your gathering into a legal seminar. Just use these as gentle conversation starters and food for thought.

Season of Giving

• Holiday Fact:
  Americans plan to spend hundreds of dollars each year on gifts, food, and decorations.
• Estate Planning Fact:
  About two-thirds of Americans do not have a will, yet everyone leaves a legacy — financial or otherwise.
• Thought to Unwrap:
  If you could leave just one meaningful “gift” to your loved ones — money, a story, a tradition, a value — what would it be?

Treasures of Time

• Holiday Fact:
  Almost everyone decorates the inside of their home for the holidays — from lights to special dishes to keepsake ornaments.
• Estate Planning Fact:
  Your will can spell out exactly who should receive sentimental items like holiday china, ornaments, menorahs, or other family treasures.
• Thought to Unwrap:
  Are there specific items you’d like to see in particular hands one day — and is that written down anywhere?

Peace on Earth

• Holiday Fact:
  Around 40% of families say they have disagreements during holiday gatherings. Some of those arguments are serious enough that people later change their wills or plans because of them.
• Estate Planning Fact:
  A clear estate plan can prevent a lot of hurt feelings and uncertainty when emotions are already running high.
• Thought to Unwrap:
  Has your family had any past disagreements that might influence how you want to set up your plan?

Shorter Days

• Holiday Fact:
  The winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year, but the earliest sunset actually happens a bit earlier in December.
• Estate Planning Fact:
  A properly designed trust can shorten or even avoid the probate process, saving time when your family needs it most.
• Thought to Unwrap:
  When you think about your own affairs being settled, what matters most — speed, privacy, simplicity, or keeping things out of court?

Fur-Ever Gifts

• Holiday Fact:
  Many Americans budget for holiday gifts for their pets — sometimes a lot!
• Estate Planning Fact:
  Your estate plan can include instructions and funds for your pets’ care. Some people even leave money in trust specifically for their animals.
• Thought to Unwrap:
  If something unexpected happened tomorrow, who would care for your pets, and how would you want them supported?