Ready to depart file checklist

Natural or unexpected, your death can place a massive administrative burden on your loved ones long after you have passed away if you do not have your financial affairs in order.

In the event of an emergency or death the following documents are crucial to include in your “ready to depart” file:

The contact details of your lawyer, insurance broker, financial advisors, doctors and tax consultants all of whom need to be notified when you pass away.

A copy of your will and your living will (communicating your desire not to be kept on life support).

Medical information and history of yourself and dependent family members.

Unabridged birth certificates for each family member.

ID book and driver’s licence.

Your marriage certificate. Should you have one, a copy of your antenuptial contract.

Copies of any divorce and maintenance agreements.

In the event that you are widowed, certified copy of your late partners’ death certificate as well as information of the executor of your partner’s estate.

The most updated tax assessment for both yourself and your partner.

Passwords or pins for phones, computers and bank accounts encrypted using an app like LastPass.

Bank details – cheque, credit card, vehicle finance, bond and call accounts. Monthly debit orders. Current employer details and employee number.

A list of insurance, pension funds, trusts and investments.

Copies of insurance and funeral policies as well as contact information to reach the insurance company.

Copies of lease agreements.

Copies of house and car insurance policies.

Medical aid and gap cover policies.

Copies of utility documents.

Firearm details.

Car ownership documentation.

Title deeds of properties. If you own a business or shares of a company, documents such as partnership agreements.

Christel Botha, Alexander Forbes