Expert perspective
Talking to heirs early matters more than you think
March 11, 2026
“Most parents or grandparents expect to share their plans ‘someday,’ but that day can come later than they intend, or later than their heirs need,” said Julie Virta, CFP®, a senior wealth executive at Vanguard, in a recent commentary in Kiplinger. “Silence doesn’t protect loved ones. It can leave doubt, resentment, and fractured relationships long after assets transfer.”
Among Virta’s tips for family wealth transfers:
- Start the conversation early, at your comfort level, to give heirs clarity before decisions become urgent.
- Focus on values and intent, not just logistics, so heirs have clarity around family wealth priorities.
- Reduce future stress by organizing plans, documents, and roles well before a transfer takes place.
Read Virta’s full commentary, which includes key steps for grantors, at Kiplinger.
Notes:
All investing is subject to risk.
CFP Board owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, in the U.S.