Facing death can be a confusing and painful time. It can also be a time for family members to feud and divide over money and assets – even when there isn’t much to squabble over. Even if the family doesn’t argue, there can still be pain from the bite Uncle Sam gets. There are ways to protect your family when the time comes.

1. Put your beneficiary on the accounts. If another name is on the checking account then when you pass away they become the owner. They can also write checks from that account (while you are alive) so it can be helpful if you need long term care.

2. Spell it all out in a detailed will. I watched a family fall apart over a couple of old guns. It is easier and better if you write out what every one is getting in detail.

3. Give it away before you are gone. Instead of holding on to stuff until you pass start giving it away (as Christmas gifts, birthday presents or for other special occasions). Not only will the family members have the items to remember you by but they will also have the gifting moment.

4. Pre-pay costs. Some funeral homes allow you to pay ahead for arrangements. This gives you the opportunity to decide on music, burial and other things that can cause grief or strife with the family members left behind.

Take the pressure off your family by planning ahead. The more that is done then the less there will be to argue about in the end.