A reminder. He who dies broke, wins.

[bucolic_frolic]

https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/debt/articles/what-happens-to-debt-when-you-die

So the max debt is the most desirable because you're spending lenders' money.

[multigraincracker]

1. Only if you know the exact

date you’ll die.
I figure if I try to have enough to live to 100, I’ll drop dead next year.
If I spend it all now like I’ll only live one more year, I’ll live to be a 100.
So I’m shooting for the middle.

[bucolic_frolic]

2. I plan to be generous with family

and figure cash would be a good option, if it's still available. Because, you know, old postage stamps are basically worthless unless on very large envelopes.

[multigraincracker]

3. Never had kids and only one relative

and he is way richer than me. So, I never give it a thought.

[DetroitLegalBeagle]

4. Only if you have no one to pass anything on to

And if you know you won't outlive when the bill is due. Personally this isn't an option for me. My wife and I have things set up so our kids and any future grandchildren will get a good financial boost when we're gone.

[bucolic_frolic]

5. All true, but it really only becomes an issue if taxed

There are still a few states with estate or inheritance taxes. Some you can avoid tax with charities, insurance trusts, or by gifting a year prior to death.

I only posted because I do like the idea leaving debts behind that are absorbed by banks, credit card companies, etc. I doubt it will happen that way, though. It would be happenstance for someone to plan and time it right with that view in mind.