Dealing with a terminal illness diagnosis is one of the hardest things. Knowing that you only have a limited amount of time left with your loved ones can motivate you to make special memories and enjoy those final moments. Many individuals use this time to take one last trip with family members to enjoy that special time together in a new place. As you are planning that final vacation, there are plenty of different ways you can enjoy your time with the people that matter the most.
If you are currently undergoing treatment or getting your affairs in order, you understand the cost involved. From end-of-life care to medical bills, your finances may already be stretched somewhat thin. However, taking that final vacation can be an incredibly important step and something that is definitely worth investing in. Talk with your spouse or other family members about ways you can lessen the financial burden while still planning an amazing trip. Here are a few ways you can consider financing a vacation that will be the best one ever.
Sell your life insurance policy.
Many people spend their lives paying into a life insurance policy. This means when you die, your dependents get a payout to cover funeral costs or costs of living without you. Choosing the right life insurance can be a difficult task. You want to provide financial security for your beneficiaries in the event of your death and make sure your money is in good hands. If you don’t yet have life insurance, it’s important to shop around for different insurance companies that can give you the best life settlement and death benefit.
As beneficial as life insurance is for your dependents after you’ve passed, it doesn’t do much good for you now as you’re trying to plan a vacation. It may be time to look into a viatical settlement. This is an opportunity wherein a third-party broker buys your life insurance policy and gives you a lump sum payout. There are no regulations on the money, so you have complete financial independence. Looking at the historical guide for viatical settlements, you can see that the whole transaction is legal and has helped thousands of families get the money they need. While you won’t get the full cash value of your insurance policy, you are still getting funds that can help you plan the perfect trip.
Look into programs and charities.
There are many nonprofits and charities around the world dedicated to providing meaningful trips and help with financing the final vacation of your life. The Make A Wish foundation is perhaps the most famous of these, providing trips for children under 18 who are suffering from a terminal illness. You may be able to find similar charities for adults if you are looking for extra funds for your trip. Usually, these organizations are looking for ways to make your dreams come true. You may even be able to get deals and discounts at your destination if you let them know your circumstance.
Spend your retirement and savings.
As they say “you can’t take it with you.” For this reason, it may be okay to dip into your savings or retirement accounts for extra money to afford your final vacation. After all, it may be the last time you can really use this money. There comes a point when you don’t need to be saving anymore and it’s time to spend what you have left. Don’t hesitate to do so for your vacation. This can also be a time to use your equity or sell items that have cash value but no sentimental value. Experiences are more important than things, so if you can find extra money in your home equity or with a yard sale, go for it.
