The 2026 Death & Inheritance Report: When, Where, and Why American Families Talk About Death, Inheritance, and Estate Planning

One in four Americans has never discussed estate planning, inheritance or end-of-life wishes with family, while another 8% cannot remember ever having the conversation. Yet 46% expect to receive an inheritance, and half of those expecting one have never formally discussed it with the person leaving it. The consequences can be significant: among Americans who lost a close family member in the past five years, 40% said that person had no complete estate plan or had one that was incomplete or outdated.

The findings provide a strong conversation starter for estate planning attorneys, financial advisors, banks and credit unions, insurance providers, accountants, wealth management firms and senior services. Sellers can help these businesses position planning as a way to start important family conversations, organize financial affairs and reduce uncertainty before a life event forces the issue.