Where do I keep all of my Information so that it is accessible upon my death?
We all have so many accounts these days, both online and physical accounts. Whether that be bank accounts, gas, electrocity, other utilities, social media and much much more…we are all collecting accounts at an extraordinary rate and keeping track of all those sometimes seems an impossible time for us, let alone for someone else trying to find and collate all that information when we pass.
It is estimated that the average UK consumer is likely to have over 200 online accounts – this is a staggering number and as we are advised to not reuse the same password for all (although, if we are honest how many of us actually take heed of that advice?) that is a lot of information to keep track of.
Another little statistic, from a YouGov survey, that I thought was worth mentioning is…
67% of respondents wanted their social media accounts taken down or removed following their death (with 7% wanting them to remain online). For some accounts, you are able to change your preferences during your lifetime and add someone to take charge of your account following your death but for others, someone will need the login details or just wait for the inactivity to cause the account to be deactivated.
So, this is all very well and good me telling you about this BUT, what can we do about it and where should we be storing this information so that we don’t leave our loved ones with an even bigger headache than is necessary?
Well, that’s where we can help!
We have designed an easy to use ‘Assets & Liabilities’ sheet where you can keep all your information. Either store it on your computer (password protected but make sure you give someone else that password!) or print it, fill it in – and keep it updated – and keep it in a safe place, perhaps with your Will, Lasting Powers of Attorney and other important documents.
This document is only a template and so some sections will be relevant and others not, however you can add and amend as is right for you and ensure that all of your information is kept up to date and all in one place (that is SAFE!).
So what sorts of things do we need to keep track of?
The ‘Assets & Liabilities’ sheet goes through all of the following:
So, first we start with the information about you and everything that your loved ones may need – your National Insurance Number, NHS Number – and other basic information as it is surprising how little information you retain when grieving. Having everything written down and to hand makes everything so much easier.
We have space to keep details of your property, or properties, including mortgage details, utilities and service providers.
We have space to keep details of finances, bank accounts, ISAs, investments, employment benefits, life insurance policies and any other places where money is held.
It is also important to keep details of any pensions, benefits and other income that you receive.
Following that is the social media accounts and email accounts.
We have also left space for you to detail any personal items of value and your wishes for these (should you have any).
As I said at the beginning, not all parts will be relevant to you and some parts may become relevant at a later date, or make you think about something that may well have been forgotten! However, this is a great template to get you started and to begin to get everything in order for you.
If you would like to have a free chat about your existing Will or making a new Will, please contact us on info@TotalLegacyCare.co.uk or 01727 865 121
Leah Waller
Have a Question or
want to book a
FREE Consultation?