An end-of-life folder is a collection of important documents and information that helps your loved ones manage your affairs after you pass away. It contains everything they might need to handle legal, financial and personal matters efficiently during a difficult time.
Why create an end-of-life folder?
Losing a loved one is emotionally overwhelming and managing their affairs can be stressful. Creating a folder:
reduces the burden on grieving family members
ensures your wishes are known and followed
helps prevent important matters from being overlooked (e.g., pets, financial accounts, digital assets)
provides clear guidance on legal and logistical matters.
What should you include?
Your end-of-life folder should contain:
Personal identification and legal documents
Birth certificate, passport, national insurance number.
Will, living will, power of attorney, trust documents.
Marriage/divorce certificates.
Financial information
Bank account details and log-in information.
Insurance policies (life, health, car, home).
Investment and retirement account details.
Debt or loan details.
Property and assets
House deeds, mortgage papers, rental agreements.
Car registration/ownership documents, tax, service history, insurance
Valuable possessions list (jewellery, collectibles, etc.).
Digital and online accounts
Email and social media log-in details.
Subscription services and automatic/direct debit payments.
End-of-life wishes and miscellaneous
Funeral/memorial service preferences.
Pet care instructions.
Contact list of important people (family, solicitor, accountant).
Review and update your folder at least once a year or after major life events (marriage, divorce, new assets, etc.).
Where to keep your end-of-life folder
Keep it in a secure but accessible location (e.g., a locked safe or a fireproof box).
Inform a trusted family member or executor about its location.
Keep a digital copy with password protection if needed.
Top tips
Get a folder or binder to keep all your documents organised.
Gather all necessary information and write down key details.
Store documents safely and inform a trusted person about them.
Review and update regularly to ensure everything stays current.