What is a "death packet," and why should you make one?

Experiencing the loss of a loved one is already emotionally difficult, and those feelings can be exacerbated when the one who passed left vague or no information on what to do after their death. No matter what age you are, you should form a death packet in case of an unforeseen tragedy.

The term “death packet” refers to a package of information for loved ones for after you die. Even if you have a will set up to deal with your affairs, there are many pieces of information that are crucial for those left behind to know, information that may not seem obviously important at first. Here is a full list of what you should include in a death packet to make the handling of your affairs much easier for your loved ones. 

Financial and other important documents

Most of your financial accounts should be accessible if you already have a will or trust, but it is still a good idea to gather a list of your accounts, such as bank account numbers, 401(k) plans, IRAs, brokerage accounts, etc. to ensure your loved ones or attorney has access to everything and nothing is forgotten. Writing down passwords or PIN numbers is a good way to give access to whoever needs it. Furthermore, writing down companies that you paid on a regular basis makes sure your money doesn’t go to a service no longer in use. These companies could include who provides your water, heating, gas, electricity, phone service, and other subscriptions to magazines or websites. Other important documents include information on your insurance policies, property deeds, large debts you have, vehicle titles, birth and marriage certificates, the contact information for your attorney, and other such information. 

Online accounts and passwords

Along with important financial and government documents, giving a list of your online accounts and passwords can make life much easier for your loved ones. If you have a password-protected phone or computer, writing down those passwords can help your loved ones find information they might need or want on your devices, such as photos or accounts you did not include. One important password to include could be your Apple ID which would give loved ones access to precious memories or valuable information you have backed up to your account. You might also want to give passwords to your social media accounts if you want someone to handle those after your death. Facebook actually allows for you to select someone to take over your account after your passing, but then your loved one might have to prove your death, which can be a long process. Usually it’s just easier to give your account information to your loved ones directly. 

Membership lists 

Writing down a list of places you were a member of or donated to frequently can help your loved ones make decisions as well as give you peace of mind. For example, if you pay automatic dues for a professional accreditation association, college alumni group, or other organization, then you may want to tell your loved ones about them to ensure that you’re not charged. You could also include charitable organizations that you donate to frequently so perhaps your loved ones can continue your legacy or make donations in your memory. 

Letter to loved ones

Another item to consider including is a letter to your loved ones. Messages like these can often bring closure and comfort to those who are grieving, especially if your death is untimely or sudden. You can also choose to make a video message and include a CD or flash drive instead. If writing or speaking directly is too emotionally difficult for you, you could also express your love in different ways, such as a piece of art or music you created. You could even just make a mixtape of songs you and your loved ones enjoyed or that remind you of your relationship. The point of this part of the package is to give your loved one a token of love and comfort, so all you have to do is choose a medium that speaks from the heart. 

Keep it updated 

The most important part of a death packet is maintaining it. Your financial standing may change, your subscriptions may change, your frequent activities may change, so it’s crucial to keep the packet updated. It is wise to choose one day a year to update your information, such as the beginning of the year, when you file your taxes, or close to your birthday. It’s also a good idea to make sure that people know where to find your death packet. You can choose to give copies to important people in your life, or you can just let your attorney or loved ones know where you keep it, perhaps in a safe box or in a certain bookshelf. 

Thinking about your death is never easy, but not planning for it can lead to much more difficulty for the people you love down the road. Grieving is a difficult process, and adding on decisions and obstacles to handling your affairs can be very stressful, so it is always best to be prepared for both you and your loved ones’ sake. 

— Avery Tamura