No-one wants to spend too much time thinking about their own mortality. The reality is, forward planning removes much of the uncertainty for your loved ones in the event of your death. The following guidance may also be useful to help you guide others.
Passing on without any clear legal instructions regarding your finances, assets and estate can leave your nearest and dearest in a very difficult position. It’s better to make plans well in advance and to have these documents safely stored away.
Here’s our checklist of 5 vital things to consider as part of your end-of-life planning.
1) Make sure you have a last will and testament – it’s crucial to create a last will and testament. This legal document will state your wishes regarding the distribution of your finances and assets and will also appoint an executor. This executor will ensure your wishes are carried out accurately and efficiently and will manage your estate plan to deliver on your instructions re charitable donation, gifts and your legacy. Also, keep this document under regular review to ensure your current wishes are contained therein.
2) Set up power of attorney and health directives – you can choose to grant a trusted individual (or individuals) with the power of attorney (PoA). This PoA allows them to handle your financial matters and make decisions on your behalf. It’s also a good idea to establish health directives, such as a living will or medical power of attorney, to ensure your medical preferences are followed.
3) Keep a record of your financial matters – this would include bank accounts, building society accounts etc as well as shareholdings, pensions, life assurances. You may wish to consider organising a funeral plan to cover the costs.
4) Get your taxes in order – it’s important to organize your tax records and consult with a tax professional to make sure your tax affairs are in order. Setting aside funds to cover any potential tax liabilities is also sensible. This will prevent complications for your loved ones during the settlement of your estate and tax liabilities.
5) Think about digital legacy planning – in a world where so much of our life is lived online, it’s vital to have a digital legacy plan. This comprehensive plan will provide information and guidance regarding your digital assets, including compiling a list of online passwords and account information. It’s a good idea to name a digital executor in your will to manage and transfer your digital presence. This will help with social media accounts, but also software subscriptions or online accounts you hold.
When it comes to end-of-life planning, there’s no time like the present. The future can often be uncertain, so it’s good practice to have your will, estate plan, powers of attorney and digital legacy plan set up and safely stored away, should they be required.
As your adviser, we can help you review your financial and tax planning considerations and can put you in touch with the relevant legal advisers to create a comprehensive end-of-life plan.
Assistance
Please feel free to contact us if you need assistance with any of the above and a member of our team will be happy to help.
