In the realm of estate planning, there exists a document that goes beyond the traditional will and serves to ease the burden on loved ones when you pass away. This document, referred to by certified financial planner Doug Boneparth as a “death note,” provides immediate access to vital information that is often overlooked in traditional estate planning. While it may not be legally binding, the contents of a death note can significantly assist in the administrative work assumed by loved ones when dealing with your affairs after your death.
One of the primary purposes of a death note is to outline all financial accounts held by the decedent. This includes savings accounts, credit cards, investments, and insurance policies, among others. By explicitly documenting the account numbers and login information associated with these accounts, the note ensures that loved ones can access them easily. Additionally, a well-prepared death note covers regular household bills such as mortgages, utilities, insurance, gym memberships, and streaming services.
In addition to financial information, a death note should also include a list of important contacts who can assist loved ones during the initial stages following your passing. This may involve estate planning attorneys, accountants, business contacts, and close friends who can offer support during this challenging time. Understanding that loved ones may also need access to your computer and phone, the note should provide login information for these devices and any master password managers in use.
The digital presence of an individual is a crucial component of a death note. It prompts the question of how social media accounts and professional websites should be managed after death. Should they continue to exist indefinitely, or should they be deleted? Personal finance expert Winnie Sun shares an example from her own life, explaining how her family was able to access her father’s social media accounts after his passing in order to download and preserve valuable memories. Hence, it is essential to consider such aspects when creating a death note.
While financial matters are paramount in a death note, it is equally important to include the location of physical documents such as spare keys, life insurance policies, home deeds, and car titles. These practical items often get overlooked but can prove to be vital for loved ones when navigating the aftermath of your passing. Moreover, it is crucial to update the death note regularly to reflect significant life changes, such as opening new bank accounts, acquiring property, or obtaining new loans.
A critical aspect of creating a death note is ensuring that loved ones are aware of its existence and where to find it. It is essential to have open conversations with your family and inform them that you have drafted this document. Keeping the note secret defeats its purpose, as loved ones may struggle to locate it when needed. Depending on personal preferences, the physical copy can be stored in a safe at home or a bank safety deposit box, with a digital copy available for easy access.
Doug Boneparth emphasizes that preparing a death note and providing clarity to those left behind is not an act of fear but an act of love. By taking the initiative to compile this essential document, you alleviate the burden on your loved ones during their grieving process. The death note serves as a guide, minimizing chaos and allowing them the necessary time to grieve while having everything organized and easily accessible.
The death note is a critical addition to traditional estate planning. It provides detailed information on financial accounts, essential contacts, digital presence management, and physical documents. Regular updates and open communication ensure its effectiveness in assisting loved ones. By preparing this document, you demonstrate your love and care for your family, helping them navigate the often overwhelming administrative tasks that arise after your passing.
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