What have you learned in dealing with the aftermath of an unexpected death or departure?

If you were the one left to figure everything out, find records, manage accounts, and all that, what did you learn?

What would you say to the next survivor—or the next to depart?

Here are some things I would say to the departing:

1. If you have everything on your computer, leave an access path somewhere, even if it has to be with a trusted third party that your survivor knows about.

2. If you receive all the major bills electronically, no one else will know when they’re due and what the account status is. Paper bills can be opened, and they contain contact information.

3. Provide for immediate access to funds that will cover current needs and special expenses while all those accounts get sorted out.

If these things are well done, it will help your loved ones when they need it.

What would you add to the list?