It isn't a will, and it doesn't need to be formal. It just needs to be clear enough for someone to follow on a very hard day.
Why it helps
When someone dies, the people closest to them face a lot of admin while they're grieving. Most of it is simple once you know who to call and where things are. Your notes mean they don't have to piece it together from drawers, emails and memory.
The same notes help if you're in hospital or can't manage things for a while.
What your family will need to know, in order
Write it in the order they'll need it.
Official steps, such as registering a death, are set out on GOV.UK (Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man have their own guidance). Your job is the personal part only you know.
Right away
- Who to tell first, with phone numbers
- Who looks after the children, pets or anyone who depends on you
- How to keep the home secure: keys, alarm, anything that needs switching off
- Where your will is, and who your executor is
In the first few weeks
- Your employer or pension provider
- Your banks, savings, loans and credit cards (providers, not numbers)
- Insurance policies and who they cover
- Bills and direct debits: which to keep paying and which to cancel
As time allows
- Email, cloud storage and social media, and what you'd want done with each
- Subscriptions and memberships
- Possessions, sentimental items and anything you'd like people to have
For a full list of what to record, see our guide to what to put in an in case of death folder.
Tips for writing it
- Write for someone stressedShort sentences, plain words, one job per line.
- Say where, not just what“Mortgage papers: filing cabinet, top drawer” beats “I have a mortgage”.
- Name a person for each job“Claire will call the school” saves an argument later.
- Leave out passwords and PINsNote your password manager and who has emergency access instead.
- Review it once a yearAnd after a house move, new baby or new job.
Blank book, template or done-for-you?
| Option | What you get | Effort |
|---|---|---|
| Blank planner or notebook | Printed pages with headings to fill in | You decide what matters and write it all |
| Free template | The same, as a download | Same as above |
| Family Handover Pack | A personalised PDF built from your answers, with an action checklist in the right-away / first-weeks / as-time-allows order | About 30–40 minutes of guided questions |
Blank books and templates give everyone the same pages. The Family Handover Pack turns your answers into a plan for your household, including a list of any gaps you still need to fill.
Make yours in one sitting
Answer guided questions about your home, family and money, and get a personalised PDF your family can follow. It includes a Read This First page, a People to Contact list, an Action Checklist and a list of anything still outstanding.
- £19.99, one-off payment
- No account, no subscription
- Your answers never leave your device
Common questions
Is a “what to do when I die” book the same as a will?
No. A will says who gets what and is a legal document. Your book tells your family what to do and where things are. You need both.
Can I make one with my parents?
Yes. Sitting down together is often the easiest way to start the conversation. They answer the questions, you help write it down.
Should it be printed or digital?
Printed is easiest for family to find and use. Keep a digital copy too if you like, somewhere they can reach.
How long does it take?
Writing one from scratch can take a few hours. The Family Handover Pack takes about 30–40 minutes.
Where should I keep it?
Somewhere safe but findable, such as with your important papers. Tell at least one trusted person where it is.