Household chores and sorting out the mail are simple tasks to share with your significant others or family. However, have you ever had to deal with bank account issues or emergency computer log-ins? If the answer is, no, then you should probably have an ‘in case I die’ folder.
An ‘in case of death folder’ is a physical or digital folder that an individual or family keeps containing the essential information required in case someone dies or becomes incapacitated. If you do not have one, it could delay inheritors or executors of your will access funds or other necessities.
What you should have in this folder
The last thing you want is for them to go through additional stress while trying to organize and pay their regular expenses. Help your loved ones avoid undue stress by preparing these documents:
a. Your will
The most crucial document in your ‘in case I die’ folder is probably your will. Quick access to your signed will is helpful to your next of kin and lawyers. Any other estate planning documents you may have, such as a living trust or the information of your will’s executors.
b. Insurance policies
The money from a life insurance policy may be available to assist chosen beneficiaries. Include details about your life insurance provider and policy and any additional insurance you may have, such as coverage for your home, car, or health. Your family will find it easier to manage or close the accounts listed in the ‘in case I die’ folder.
c. PRS or Pension fund details
Do your beneficiaries have a right to your pension? It would be best if you left behind specific facts regarding policies and/or your financial advisor’s name and contact information because pensions and insurance plans have a wide variety of payout regulations. Your beneficiaries might receive the money quickly if you do this.
d. Contacts for relevant people
You can ask your lawyers to help prepare your ‘in case I die’ folder. For that reason, keep a list of phone numbers and addresses for everyone who might need to be reached. This includes your financial advisor, will executors, and attorney or solicitor. They most likely also possess significant records.
e. List of possessions and documents
Do you own any valuables, such as jewellery or heirlooms? Maybe car grants, house grants, or even certificates for your diamonds? Put a roadmap to who gets what family heirloom, so it will be simpler to locate and divide your personal belongings following your will. Leave specific directions about where others can find any materials you don’t wish to keep in the ‘in case I die’ folder.
f. Funeral arrangement preferences
This is probably the bleakest document you can put in this folder, but very important nonetheless. Your loved ones will use this occasion to celebrate your life. For them to carry out your wishes, let them know if you have made any prior arrangements.
Funeral arrangements are made by your executor, so knowing where to find your arrangements will greatly aid them by providing specific instructions. Such as the location, nature, and content of the service, as well as the type of music to be played or other specifics for your last resting place.
g. Bank account details and credentials
If you have multiple bank accounts with and not with one of the big banks, ensure you provide information on all of your bank accounts. No need to include account balances because they will fluctuate over time. Still, it’s critical to have information regarding account holders in your ‘in case I die’ folders, such as names and account numbers, passwords, and online access information.
h. Computer passwords
Your family members might need to access data stored on your computer. To help them find what they need and where to locate it, create a ‘map’ that will direct others to your stuff. If you have social media accounts, consider preparing a list of the passwords and instructions for what you want to happen to the accounts after your passing.
Why do you need one?
What will your family need to know in case you die? Are you in debt? Do you want to pass the money on to a child? There are many questions to ask when someone dies.
If you are the family member with the answers, you must have an ‘in case I die’ folder. It will help avoid disputes, confusion, and stress for your family.
Where to keep this folder?
Keep the folder inside a safe, fireproof, floodproof, or maybe even disaster-proof space. You could also keep it in a safety deposit box but remember to tell at least two people where it is and to look for it if you die.
There’s no limit to the importance we can put down for peace of mind. Inform your loved ones that you have prepared all the necessary documents and information in the event of death. The conversation does not need to be depressing. Tell them where to find your ‘in case I die’ folder so they can take care of everything, and you won’t have to worry about anything.