by Kristen Ishihara and Chris Parker with Ishihara & Parker Law Firm PLLC

Nobody really likes thinking about the end of life, but let’s be real—it’s something we all have to face at some point. The good news? A little preparation now can save your loved ones a whole lot of stress later. So, let’s go over five important things you should do before you pass away to make things easier for your family and ensure your wishes are honored.

1. Have a Will (Seriously, Just Do It)

A will is one of the most important documents you’ll ever have. It tells people exactly what you want to happen to your belongings, your assets, and even your dependents when you’re gone. Without one, the state decides, and trust me—you don’t want that. If you don’t already have a will, now is the time to make one.

2. Assign Power of Attorney

Imagine something happens, and you can’t make decisions for yourself. Who do you trust to handle your finances or make medical choices on your behalf? That’s where a power of attorney (POA) comes in. You can assign one for healthcare decisions and another for financial matters—just make sure it’s someone you truly trust.

3. Organize Your Financial Documents

You don’t want your loved ones scrambling through drawers trying to figure out what accounts you have, where your money is, or how to access anything. Make a master list of your bank accounts, investments, debts, insurance policies, and any other financial details they might need. Store it in a safe place, and let a trusted person know where to find it.

4. Write Down Your Online Accounts and Passwords

In today’s digital world, we have accounts for everything—banking, social media, email, subscriptions… the list goes on. If no one can access them, closing or managing your accounts can become a nightmare. Keep a secure list of your logins (use a password manager if you prefer), and make sure someone knows how to retrieve it when needed.

5. Talk to Your Loved Ones About Your Wishes

You might have everything legally documented, but talking about it is just as important. Let your family know your wishes regarding your assets, medical care, and even funeral arrangements. These conversations might feel awkward, but they can prevent confusion and disagreements later on.

Final Thoughts

Life is unpredictable, and while we can’t control everything, we can prepare for what’s inevitable. By handling these five things now, you’ll give yourself peace of mind and save your loved ones from unnecessary stress and legal headaches. So, don’t wait—start checking these off your list today!

‍