Important Information to Gather( including contact information)
Will Enduring Power of Attorney
These three documents should be regularly reviewed and updated. Does your will include your new grandbaby? Did you know that a divorce will nullify your will in Alberta? And what if your executor predeceases you?
Next, Get Organized
Gather important documents( see checklist on right) and keep them in one secure, well-labelled place. I provided copies in a sealed envelope to my executor and let them know where to find the originals. This alone can save months of frustration later.
Create a list of all the accounts to be cancelled upon your death, including contact information and documentation so your executor can close them in a timely manner. For example, if a pension is not cancelled, recovering funds from family members can be emotionally and financially draining.
Don’ t forget your digital accounts— any online paid subscriptions or email accounts will need to be closed. Are you on Facebook? Active social media profiles along with an obituary can provide scammers all they need to steal your identity in death( called“ ghosting fraud”) to file fake tax returns or open credit card accounts. Leaving usernames and passwords, along with access instructions for any online accounts, prevents complications.
Personal Directive Insurance policies
Bank and investment account details
Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security, and pension information
Property titles and mortgage information
Funeral or burial wishes
List of digital accounts and passwords( or password manager access)
Names and contact information for executor, attorney, and agents
Copies of your passport, driver ' s licence, and any other critical identification
A list of subscriptions, memberships, or other paid accounts and fees that will need to be cancelled( for example, utilities, Costco, online newspapers)
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