Articles
Love After Death
When we think of family love, we think of quality time together, memory-making special events, holidays shared, and the wonderful, warm interactions we have with one another; we certainly don’t think about death.
Ironically, though, one of the greatest demonstrations of family love is preparing for your own passing to ensure your loved ones don’t have to deal with unnecessary challenges while grieving your loss. When someone passes, the people closest to them will be confronted with admin, paperwork, and lots of decision-making and planning. Having a plan or guide to help them navigate this will make the necessary tasks easier and give them time and space to mourn.
Here is some advice on what you can do now to help your loved ones after your passing:
The paperwork
We are all understandably cautious about storing and sharing personal information, but your loved one will need to have access to this at the time of your death. They will need to know where to find your will, ID document, passport, insurance policies, bank account names and numbers (debit orders), health and medical aid information, and any liabilities such as mortgages and debts, car registration, etc. Perhaps consider keeping this information with an appointed attorney, in a locked safe at home or securely in the cloud but ensure your nominated loved one will have access.
The conversation
No one wants to talk about death, and although it can be uncomfortable, it is necessary. Let your family know your wishes regarding burial or cremation (if the latter, who you want to keep your ashes and where you want them scattered), funeral or memorial service, where you would like it to be held, who you wish to officiate it, and who you would like to deliver eulogies, etc.
The finances
In some cases, settling a deceased's estate can take up to a year or more, and immediate costs, such as funeral expenses, will be associated with your passing. Taking out a funeral policy with a reliable, trusted insurer such as Monarch Insurance will give your loved ones access to funds at the time of your death. These funds can be used to pay for your funeral or memorial service or any other costs they will need to cover during this time.
To further assist with financial responsibilities after your death, you could create a savings account in your loved one’s name that holds money to settle outstanding debts, cover debit orders, care for dependents, make arrangements for pets, and maintain property and assets until the estate is settled. The death of a loved one is traumatic; it is life-altering in so many ways. Don’t let your death make the lives of your family members any more difficult, having to deal with the unexpected costs and plans related to your death. Show them love after death and prepare today to protect them then.
