Possibly the Best Gift You Can Give Your Family This Christmas: Getting Your Affairs in Order

As the festive season approaches, many of us are frantically searching for the perfect gifts for our loved ones. But perhaps the most meaningful gift we can give our families isn't something that can be wrapped and placed under the tree – instead it could be the peace of mind that comes from having our affairs in order.

As both a former Wills and Probate solicitor and as a widow who has experienced the challenges of dealing with a loved one's estate firsthand, I've seen how proper planning can make an enormous difference to families during difficult times. While sorting out paperwork might be the last thing on your mind in the festive season, I wonder whether we could reframe it as an act of love that could save your family from unnecessary stress and complications in the future?!

Where to start…

When you look at all the home paperwork that needs sorting it can be overwhelming, but if you break it down and focus on one step at a time it is amazing what can get done. Here are some steps that can make a significant difference when it comes to sorting out the home paperwork:

• Create or Update Your Will - Your Will is the most important document setting out who gets what when you die. It is important to ensure that it reflects your current circumstances, especially if you've experienced significant life changes like marriage, divorce, or welcoming new family members.
• Review or Make Powers of Attorney - Whilst a Will covers what happens after death, Powers of Attorney state who you want to make decisions for you in your lifetime, if you become unable to make those decisions yourself. There are two types: Health and Welfare, and Property and Financial Affairs, which are both essential to ensure others can speak about and manage your future care and finances.
• Organise Your Paperwork - Create a simple record (physical or digital) containing:

• • Insurance policies and pension information
  • Bank account details
  • Property deeds
  • Important passwords and digital account information
  • Contact details for your professional advisers

• Write Letters of Wishes - These are informal documents, which complement your Will and Powers of Attorney, explaining additional sentimental and practical information about personal possessions, funeral preferences and care for pets, which will help your executors and attorneys to carry out their roles.

Making this Gift Manageable

Two ways to avoid overwhelm are to break things down and get some support and advice. One way to get started is to set a timer for just 30 minutes this weekend to create a simple list of your accounts and policies. Even this small step could make a significant difference to your family in the future. Next, consider scheduling a January appointment with your financial adviser to review your arrangements. The new year is an ideal time to ensure your financial planning aligns with your wishes and circumstances for the year ahead.

Whilst putting in place your affairs may not bring immediate joy, it demonstrates deep care for your family's future wellbeing and it will hopefully save panic and worry later down the line. We wouldn’t want our loved ones to struggle financially, and we also do not want them to struggle with the administration. By taking care of these matters now, we're ensuring that when the end comes they can focus on their emotions, knowing that the practicalities are in order.

Taking the First Step

Instead of waiting for new year’s resolutions, why not make a start now to get your affairs in better order?

When the worst happens life can feel as though it has been turned upside down. By making a start now you are taking practical steps to care for those you love by giving them the gift of clarity and certainty during what could otherwise be a confusing and stressful time. The plans and organisation you focus on now can become their emotional handrail in the future.

This festive season, consider giving your family this invaluable gift. It might not be the most exciting present under the tree, but it could be the most meaningful one you give.

Emma Gray is a widow, mother and former Wills and Probate solicitor, who now helps others as a grief and life coach through her business Rainbow Hunting. Emma helps support those with the practical and emotional things that need to be done to prepare for death and dying because she believes that in dealing with these things we free up space to better enjoy life.