“In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” – Benjamin Franklin
The death of a loved one, regardless of circumstances, is universally difficult. Here are things you can do to make it easier in the moments immediately following your death.
1. Organ Donation. If applicable, this information needs to be immediately provided to your doctor or hospice team. A Disposition of Remains will state whether you are an organ donor. If you do not have this document, your state-issued ID needs to be accessible.
2. Disposition of Remains. This document provides your wishes for your service and final arrangements, including whether they are prearranged, or have military benefits. It also designates an individual (designated agent) to carry them out. If you do not have a designated agent, your next of kin will be asked to make the arrangements, including where your body is to be transported.
3. Estate Plan. Have a current estate plan, including a Will or Revocable Living Trust. Tell at least one trusted individual where to locate the original documents.
4. Death Certificate. Keep relevant information necessary for a death certificate with your estate plan documents.
5. Pets and Children. Provide instructions in your estate plan for pets, minor children, and individuals with disabilities for whom you are responsible. Consider supplementing your estate plan with additional written instructions.
6. Prepare a List of Individuals to Contact. Maintain a list of individuals to be informed of your death, including their phone numbers. This list could include clubs, organizations, and house of worship at which you are a member. Include your employer and attorney, if applicable.
7. Secure Property. Information regarding your home security, vehicles, and other valuables should be kept with your important papers. Include contact information for individuals who can temporarily feed and care for pets, water your plants, and pick up your mail.
8. Organize Information. Make available the following documents, as applicable:
- A current list of usernames, passwords and answers to security questions for all accounts and subscriptions, including financial assets, liabilities, utilities, and social media accounts;
- Contact information for your CPA, attorney, and financial advisor;
- Contact information for your landlord or tenants;
- A family tree (especially if you do not have a Will);
- Safe deposit box or home safe information;
- Login information for your phone and computer;
- Copies of financial account statements, including how they are titled and whether they have beneficiary designations;
- Deeds and original vehicle titles and registrations;
- Record of debts – including recent statements, whether they are auto-paid, and from which account they are auto-paid, and whether autopay was established through your financial institution or directly with the creditor;
- Copies of all insurance policies;
- Two years of tax returns;
- Marriage and Birth Certificates; and
- A Certified Death Certificate for your spouse.
To make an appointment or request additional information, please our contact client care specialist Margo Passeau at margo@bethmcdaniel.com or 425-296-3121.
