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Planning Ahead: How SaveOr Can Simplify a Premortem

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A couple participating in Estate Planning with their attorney

Estate planning often focuses on what happens after death. But what if you could take a proactive approach to ensure your wishes are clear and your loved ones are prepared? This is where the concept of a “premortem” comes into play. A premortem is the practice of planning and organizing your estate and personal belongings while you’re alive and capable. SaveOr makes this process easier, helping you address challenges before they arise and fostering peace of mind for you and your family.


What is a Premortem, and Why Does It Matter?


A premortem is a proactive approach to estate planning that involves documenting, organizing, and communicating your plans and preferences well in advance. Unlike traditional estate planning, which often centers around wills and financial assets, a premortem focuses on the tangible and sentimental items that make up your personal property.


The benefits of a premortem include:

  1. Clarity: Avoid misunderstandings about your wishes.

  2. Family Harmony: Reduce potential conflicts over sentimental items.

  3. Control: Make decisions while you are fully capable of expressing your preferences.

  4. Efficiency: Ease the burden on loved ones during an already difficult time.


However, creating a premortem without the right tools can be daunting. That’s where SaveOr comes in.


How SaveOr Makes a Premortem Easier


SaveOr is a user-friendly platform designed to document, organize, and manage tangible personal property. Its features are tailored to the needs of individuals preparing for the future. Here’s how SaveOr supports a thorough premortem:


1. Inventory Your Belongings

Start by documenting all your tangible assets using SaveOr’s intuitive tools:

  • Photos and Videos: Capture detailed images or videos of your belongings to create a visual record.

  • Descriptions: Add details about each item, including its history, significance, and condition.

  • Emotional and Financial Value: Use SaveOr’s sliders to assign emotional and monetary worth to your items, ensuring your intentions are clear.


2. Tell the Story Behind Your Items

Every heirloom has a story. SaveOr allows you to record the sentimental value of your belongings, explaining why they matter and to whom. Sharing these narratives can add depth to your legacy and help your loved ones appreciate the significance of their inheritance.


3. Designate Recipients

Avoid future conflicts by specifying who should receive each item. SaveOr lets you assign recipients to individual belongings, ensuring that your wishes are documented and easily accessible.


4. Facilitate Family Discussions

SaveOr’s invitee feature encourages collaboration and transparency. Share your inventory with family members so they can express interest in items, comment, or ask questions. This interactive approach allows you to address potential conflicts and make adjustments before they become issues.


5. Generate a PDF Report

SaveOr creates a professional PDF report of your inventory, which can serve as an informal personal property memorandum. In states where this document is legally recognized, it can even become part of your estate plan .


Why a Premortem Matters:


A Common Scenario

Imagine a family matriarch who passes away, leaving behind a lifetime of treasures: jewelry, artwork, family photos, and heirlooms. Despite having a clear will for financial assets, disputes erupt among her children over who should inherit the sentimental items. Arguments over a grandfather clock and a pearl necklace create rifts that take years to heal.


With a premortem facilitated by SaveOr, this scenario could have been avoided. By documenting her belongings, sharing their stories, and designating recipients, the matriarch could have ensured a smooth transfer of her possessions, preserving both her legacy and family harmony.


How to Start Your Premortem with SaveOr

  1. Download SaveOr: Set up an account and begin your inventory.

  2. Start Small: Document a few meaningful items to get the process rolling.

  3. Engage Your Family: Invite loved ones to participate in the process.

  4. Review Regularly: Update your inventory as circumstances change.

  5. Consult a Professional: Work with an estate planner or attorney to integrate your SaveOr inventory into your broader estate plan.


The Peace of Mind You Deserve

A premortem isn’t just about planning for the future—it’s about creating a legacy of clarity, thoughtfulness, and love. By using SaveOr, you can ensure your belongings are managed exactly as you wish while minimizing stress and conflict for your family. Whether it’s a cherished quilt or a valuable antique, every item tells a story, and SaveOr ensures that story lives on.


Author:

Matthew Scola

Founder of SaveOr, an estate planning platform focused on helping families through challenging life events. His insights come from interviewing and working with families and professionals to find a solution to the challenges of downsizing, estates, and estate management.

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