Planning Ahead
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Why Some People Choose to Plan Ahead
When someone dies, their loved ones are often faced with making important decisions while coping with grief. Having some wishes written down, or keeping important information together, can help reduce uncertainty and make practical tasks a little easier.
Making a Will
A will allows you to record how you would like your estate to be dealt with after your death.
Having a valid will can help to:
- Make your wishes clear.
- Make it easier for your executor to manage your estate.
- Reduce misunderstandings between family members.
- Help ensure the people or charities you wish to benefit are included.
- Potentially make the administration of your estate more straightforward.
- Review it regularly if your circumstances change.
If you choose to make a will, it's important to keep it somewhere safe and let your executor know where it is stored.
Recording Your Funeral Wishes
Some people choose to write down their funeral preferences. This doesn't have to be a detailed plan—it can simply include the things that matter most to you. You might wish to record:
- Whether you would prefer burial or cremation.
- Music, readings or hymns.
- Religious or non-religious preferences.
- Any special requests or personal touches.
- Whether you would like donations to charity instead of flowers.
- Whether you have any particular dress code or colour preferences (if any).
Considering a Funeral Plan
Some people choose to take out a prepaid funeral plan, while others prefer to save money separately or leave arrangements for their family to make.
It's also worth checking whether the funeral plan is regulated and what protections are in place for your money.
If you're thinking about a funeral plan, it's worth taking time to understand:
- What is included.
- Any exclusions or additional costs.
- Payment options.
- Whether the plan is suitable for your circumstances.
Keeping Important Information Together
Many people find it helpful to keep important documents and information in one place where a trusted person can easily find them if needed.
This could include:
- Your will.
- Birth and marriage certificates.
- Life insurance and pension details.
- Bank and savings account information.
- Details of any prepaid funeral plan.
- Contact details for your solicitor or executor.
- A list of important subscriptions or digital accounts.
- Emergency contact information.
- NHS number (if known).
- Details of any pets and their care arrangements.
You don't need to include passwords, but it's sensible to let someone know how these can be accessed securely if necessary.