Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
How to Divide a Loved One's Possessions. There are ways to redistribute a loved one's property
without destroying the family. You will need Mutual respect Communication skills A trusted
family leader Lists of desired items Colored stickers and a property list. Step 1. Distribute
possessions by agreeing to have a trusted family member organize and lead a family meeting.
Step 2. Respect the departed person’s wishes for how to divide personal effects and read
these with all parties present. Step 3. Consider the needs of family members or relatives in
determining who gets what among the items not listed. You might decide by birth order,
need, or marital status. Allow yourself to spend time with mementos. Use the gathering
as a chance to tell family stories that might be attached to an item, and to heal. Step
4. Encourage everyone to declare what they want and document it to avoid accusations
or claims later. Step 5. Use a colored sticker or numbering system for individuals to lay
claim to items. Run a raffle, with an uninvolved person selecting, to decide contested claims.
Step 6. Sort things into piles grouped according to where they will go: to a family member,
a friend, a neighbor, or a charity. Inventory property ahead of time. Step 7. Run an estate
or yard sale, or leave leftover belongings to a charity. Did you know Did you know? In
2006, more than a quarter of Americans earning over $100,000 a year claimed it was not enough
for the possessions they wished and needed to have.