Do you have a “When I Die” folder prepared? Do you even know what a when I die folder is? This is something that, when prepared in advance, can save your family or friends a whole lot of trouble in the event that you pass before them. (1)
How To Make A When I Die Folder
If you’ve ever had to go through the difficult process of collecting your loved one’s affairs, closing out all of their various accounts, and dealing with property sales, all the while grieving their loss, you know how challenging this is. This is why having a “When I Die” folder is a good idea to start working on now, as morbid as it sounds. It will make those who have to put together the puzzle of the bureaucracy of your life much, much simpler. (1)
What Goes Into A When I Die Folder
Now that you know what one is and why you need one, you’re likely wondering what to put in it. Think about all the difficult things to deal with: Hydro and phone accounts, internet providers, bank dealings, and more. Already dealing with these things for yourself can be a headache, let alone trying to get access to someone else’s accounts who aren’t even around to give consent. (1)
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Below is a list of the things that you should have in your when I die folder. This can be a physical folder, shoebox, cloud storage – wherever you prefer, as long as it’s easily accessible and your loved ones have access to it. (1)
- Signed advanced directive (notarized, if required)
- Will and living trust with certification
- Marriage and divorce certificates, as well as any prenuptial agreements if applicable
- Passwords: Phone, email, social media accounts, etc.
- A delegation of who is allowed to have which passwords
- Funeral instructions and final disposition
- Ethical will and letters to loved ones
What Is An Ethical Will?
An ethical will is a personal document that you write that outlines your values, experiences, and life lessons. This is a beautiful document that allows your loved ones to learn more about and have written memories of your life and who you were. You write one in order to pass on knowledge and lessons that you may have not had the opportunity to give in person. (2)
Other things you can include in an ethical will include (2):
- Family photos
- Recipes
- Clothing items
- Objects of personal value
- Explanations as to how you decided on the terms of your legal will
If you are having trouble figuring out where to start writing an ethical will, Everplans has templates and helpful pointers for you. Another way to think about it is this: If you were to die this week, what would you want to say to your loved ones (parents, siblings, children, friends, etc) that you haven’t yet said? This can be a challenging and emotional experience, so take your time. If you need breaks, take them. If you need help, seek it out, but don’t wait too long. These beautiful letters will be wonderful keepsakes for your loved ones and help them process the loss of such an important person in their life. (2)
When Should You Start Working On Your When I Die Folder?
There really isn’t a time that is too early. Don’t try to do it all at once – that will be far too overwhelming. Instead, work on getting one document or piece of information in there each month. The younger you are, likely the more often you will have to update it. You may get married, have more children, or meet new people in your life who you want to include. Passwords and accounts will also likely change throughout your life, so keep those updated as best you can. (1)
Remember, this is something that you are doing to make your loved one’s lives easier after you are gone. That, alone, is a good enough reason to put the time and effort into having this prepared.
Keep Reading: ‘I know they are going to die.’ This foster father takes in only terminally ill children
Sources
- “Why You Need to Make a ‘When I Die’ File—Before It’s Too Late.” Time. Shoshana Berger, BJ Miller. August 1, 2019.
- “How To Write An Ethical Will?” Ever Plans