How can I ensure my assets don't get "lost" or unclaimed after death?

thegreenone

Like arthurarthur52 we have The Book of Doom which I'm thinking of renaming The Book of Information.  

I update it every time we change insurance co./utility provider/travel insurance (yes, when we had some) etc with new account details and addresses of where to send a DC.  Some passwords but they shouldn't be necessary.  It also contains bank accounts/Premium Bond accounts/Pension providers/Husband's Public Indemnity Ins/Husband's Institute Memberships/BT/Window cleaner/Veg box delivery and so on.

The folder sits in the desk and the boys know where it is.  No, it's not in a fireproof box but I think that will be my next amazon purchase.  

My late brother kept every single statement for every single account, pre-paperless, and it was easy to close things down.

I would suggest you open a joint account with your wife and put enough money in for funerals and to keep paying the bills until whoever's estate is settled.  I've been in this situation when my Mum died last November. I'm still paying her bills from this account now and will do until the her flat is sold.

PennyForThem_2

Not sure if anybody has said this but I really think this is dangerous:

[quote]It sounds harsh but locked in the safe we have a death book. It lists all the accounts we have the Cc etc. And online passwords.[/quote]

Not sure done the quote right

When partner / loved one dies companies have Death Departments - no need for a password or to access account - absolutely quite rightly - have you read the 'Deaths' forum on here? 

By all means make available your accounts / savings company or bank, IFA contact detais, wishes etc but don't give away usernames and passwords - just read that forum and it will show you why!