When most people think about end-of-life planning, a few things immediately come to mind: a will, a healthcare directive, maybe life insurance. And while those are absolutely essential, there are several equally important steps that are often overlooked—but can make a world of difference to the loved ones you leave behind.
In this article, we’ll walk through a few of the most commonly forgotten pieces of end-of-life planning, and why taking care of them now brings peace of mind later.
1. Digital Access: Passwords, Accounts, and Assets
We live so much of our lives online—yet few of us think to leave instructions for accessing important digital accounts.
- Make a list of key accounts: email, social media, online banking, cloud storage.
- Use a password manager or write down login info and store it in a secure place.
- Decide what should happen to your social media profiles—many platforms now allow you to designate a legacy contact.
Why it matters: Your loved ones may need access to cancel subscriptions, pay bills, or retrieve treasured photos.
2. Personal Wishes Beyond the Legal Documents
Wills and directives cover the legal aspects—but what about your personal preferences?
- Do you want a specific song played at your memorial?
- Have you written a letter to your grandchildren?
- Are there keepsakes you’d like passed to certain people?
Why it matters: Small touches can bring comfort and clarity to your family during an emotional time.
3. A Master Contact List
In today’s world, we’re often connected to people across states (and decades). Leaving behind a current list of:
- Close friends
- Financial advisors or attorneys
- Religious or community leaders
- Organizations you support
Why it matters: It helps your loved ones notify the right people and follow through on your final wishes.
4. Instructions for Pet Care
If you have a pet, who will take care of them if something happens to you?
- Designate a caregiver
- Leave notes about feeding, routines, and vet info
Why it matters: Pets are family, too. Clear instructions ensure they’re well cared for.
5. Life Insurance Beneficiary Review
Many people purchase life insurance and forget about it for years. But policies—and people—can change.
- Review your beneficiaries regularly
- Confirm contact info is current
- Consider whether your policy still aligns with your financial goals
Why it matters: Mistakes or outdated info can delay payouts or cause unnecessary stress for your beneficiaries.
And if you no longer need your life insurance policy—or the premiums are becoming a burden—you may have another option. At PolicyBank, we help individuals explore whether selling their life insurance policy through a life settlement could be the right financial move. A life settlement allows you to sell your policy for a lump sum, often greater than the cash surrender value, providing flexibility for your future.
Learn more about how life settlements work →
Final Thoughts
Planning ahead is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give to your loved ones. By thinking beyond the basics, you help ensure they’re supported not just legally—but emotionally and logistically as well.
If you’re not sure where to start, our free End-of-Life Planning Checklist can help guide you through the essentials.