The coming months
Coordinate with family on personal items
Start by checking whether the will mentions a separate list of personal items. Many states let people leave one, and it settles most questions before they start. Then, before selling or donating anything, ask siblings, children, and close family what they'd like to keep. Do this early and in writing. Disagreements about who gets sentimental items are one of the most common sources of family conflict after a death.
What you'll need
- A shared list of items
- A way for family to claim items in writing
Good to know
Take turns choosing: If several people want the same items, take turns picking. Draw straws for who goes first. It feels fair, and it stops one person from taking everything.
Need help with this step?
Someone on our team can talk through this step with you, answer questions, and help you figure out what applies.
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