At The Farewell Guide, we understand how uncomfortable the topic of death can be, but planning ahead for the inevitable is one of the most caring and practical things you can do for yourself and your loved ones. Death is something we all must face, but many of us avoid organising important details like funeral plans, will preparation, and medical instructions. 

Peter Thornton, a former human rights barrister, Old Bailey judge, and the first chief coroner of England and Wales, stresses the importance of getting organised in his new book, The Later Years – The Simple Guide to Organising the Rest of Your Life. He shares valuable advice on how to create an “On Death” file, a collection of essential documents and instructions that can save your loved ones from scrambling during a time of grief. Thornton’s perspective is clear: don’t leave it until it’s too late. 

We at The Farewell Guide are committed to helping you plan ahead, making funeral arrangements simpler and more affordable. We provide a platform where you can compare funeral prices and services from local funeral directors, ensuring that you make the best decisions for your needs. But there’s more to planning than just the service itself. A comprehensive "Death File" ensures that all your wishes—medical, financial, and funeral-related—are organised, stored securely, and easily accessible when your family needs them most. 

Here’s how to put together a practical "Death File" to get yourself organised before you die: 

1. Create a Will 

A will is one of the most important documents you’ll ever create. It outlines how you want your assets distributed after you pass away and can prevent unnecessary conflict among your loved ones. 

• Include details about who will receive your property and assets. 

• Name guardians for any dependents. 

• Ensure your will is witnessed and updated regularly. 

At The Farewell Guide, we can help you find the right funeral director for your needs, and we always recommend getting legal advice when writing or updating your will. 

2. Prepare Your Funeral Plan 

One of the most important aspects of getting organised is planning your funeral according to your wishes. Whether you prefer cremation or burial, a religious or secular service, or specific music, it’s essential that your family knows exactly how you want things to be handled. 

• Choose your preferred funeral director. Use The Farewell Guide to compare services and prices from local funeral directors to find one that suits your needs and budget. 

• Decide on burial or cremation. 

• Write down any specific requests for the funeral ceremony (music, readings, speakers). 

• Pre-purchase funeral insurance or a plan to lock in costs ahead of time. 

At The Farewell Guide, we also allow you to create a detailed funeral plan—from selecting the type of service to specific songs and memories you want included. This plan can be safely stored in your account, and you can easily share it with loved ones, so they are prepared to carry out your wishes when the time comes. 

3. Organise Important Legal and Financial Documents 

Having your financial affairs in order can save your family from unnecessary confusion or distress. Make sure everything is easily accessible by storing essential documents in your “Death File.” 

Documents to include: 

• Your will 

• Birth certificate and marriage certificate 

• NHS card and number 

• Tax and National Insurance details 

• Property ownership documents (deeds, lease agreements) 

• Insurance policies (life, health, home, car) 

• Pension information and details about investments 

• Bank account details and any debts 

4. Record Medical Information and Wishes 

It’s important to keep your medical records and any health-related wishes up to date. If you have specific preferences for your care or medical treatments, write them down clearly so your family or healthcare providers know exactly what to do. 

• Record your medical history and current conditions. 

• Create a living will or advance directive that explains your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment. 

• Make sure your family knows your preferences for end-of-life care (hospice care, pain management, etc.). 

5. Store Digital Information 

In today’s digital world, it’s just as important to manage your online presence and accounts. Consider how your loved ones will handle your digital life after you’re gone. 

• Create a list of your online accounts, including emails, social media, and banking accounts. 

• Include passwords (or a secure way for your family to access them) so your family can handle online affairs. 

• Consider making arrangements for your digital legacy, such as closing social media accounts or transferring data. 

6. Share Your Wishes with Your Family 

The last thing you want is for your family to be left in the dark. It’s crucial that they know where your “Death File” is stored and what your wishes are. 

• Have open conversations with your loved ones about your plans. This can be an uncomfortable topic, but it will save them from having to make difficult decisions on your behalf. 

• Store your "Death File" in a safe, accessible location, and inform trusted family members where it can be found when needed. 

At The Farewell Guide, we make sharing your wishes easier than ever. After creating your detailed funeral plan, you can securely store it and share it with your loved ones. This ensures that your family is informed, and they won’t have to make tough decisions in a moment of grief. 

7. Stay Organised and Keep Your File Updated 

Your “Death File” is a living document—be sure to update it regularly as your life circumstances change. This includes adding new assets, updating healthcare instructions, or making changes to your funeral preferences. 

In Summary 

Planning for the end of life isn’t easy, but it’s an important step in ensuring that your wishes are respected, and that your loved ones have one less thing to worry about when the time comes. By putting together a comprehensive “Death File,” you’re giving your family clarity during a difficult time. 

At The Farewell Guide, we make this process easier by providing tools to compare local funeral services and securely store your funeral plans. You can even share the details with your family, so they’ll be prepared and know exactly what to do when the time comes. 

Start today. Get organised and take control of your funeral planning with The Farewell Guide. Visit The Farewell Guide to begin making your arrangements and preparing your "Death File" now. 

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