Creating an In Case of Death Folder

Thinking ahead to organise important documents and wishes can feel daunting, but it is one of the most thoughtful ways to support the people you love. An “In Case of Death” folder – sometimes called a death planning folder or end-of-life organiser – brings clarity to practical matters and reduces stress when it matters most.

This guide offers a soft, human-centred approach to creating an In Case of Death folder in the UK, shaped by care, simplicity and dignity.

What Is an “In Case of Death” Folder?

An “In Case of Death” (ICOD) folder is a collection of documents and information that helps family, executors or trusted friends manage affairs after someone dies. It isn’t about dwelling on death, but about creating clarity and support for those left behind.

Your folder can be physical, digital, or both – whichever feels most accessible to you and those you trust.

Why Creating a Folder Can Bring Peace of Mind

When someone dies, grief and logistics often arrive together. Having key documents and preferences gathered in one place can reduce uncertainty, prevent delays, and make it easier for others to handle practical matters at a difficult time.

Many people describe creating an ICOD folder as a gift – a quiet act of care that makes space for those who will be navigating life after loss.

What to Include in an “In Case of Death” Folder

You don’t need to gather everything all at once. Even a small start can make a meaningful difference. The sections below include the information people often find most helpful to have in one place.

1. Personal and Identity Documents

These documents help confirm identity and formal status:

• Birth certificate (or details of where it is stored)
• Passport details
• National Insurance number
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate
• Divorce or dissolution documents (if applicable)
• Driving licence

2. Financial and Property Details

These help manage accounts, assets and responsibilities:

• Bank account information
• Savings, investments and pension details
• Mortgage or rent statements
• Property deeds or tenancy agreements
• Insurance policies (life, home, vehicle)

It can also help to include contact details for any financial advisers or account managers.

3. Legal Papers

These documents provide legal guidance and clarity:

• Will and estate planning documents
• Power of Attorney paperwork (if in place)
• Trust documents (if applicable)

Make a clear note of where original documents are stored and who has access to them.

4. Funeral and Final Wishes

Writing down your preferences can bring comfort and clarity to loved ones:

• Whether you would prefer burial or cremation
• Any preferences for a natural burial ground
• The style of ceremony you would like (simple, religious, non-religious, family-led)
• Meaningful readings, music or rituals
• Names of people you would like involved (celebrant, officiant, funeral director)

These notes may not be legally binding, but they can be deeply helpful when decisions need to be made.

5. Digital and Online Accounts

Modern life means many important things are digital. Consider including:

• Email accounts
• Social media profiles
• Subscriptions and memberships
• Cloud storage accounts
• Password manager details (securely referenced)

For security, many people include instructions on where passwords are stored, rather than writing them directly in the folder.

6. Regular Bills and Subscriptions

A list of recurring expenses can help prevent unnecessary stress later:

• Utilities
• Phone and broadband
• Streaming services
• Memberships and regular payments

Noting automatic payments and who to contact can help stop unwanted charges after death.

Where to Keep Your Folder

The most important balance is accessibility and security.

• Physical folder: store it somewhere safe, with clear notes about where it is kept.
• Digital folder: use secure storage, and make sure a trusted person knows how to access it if needed.
• A combined approach: keep a physical index with references to secure digital locations.

Whatever you choose, consider sharing the folder’s location and access instructions with a trusted person so it can be used when needed.

How to Begin, Gently and Practically

Starting doesn’t need to feel like a large project. Many people begin with one section – perhaps personal documents – and add to it gradually.

Some gentle ways to begin:

• Write as though you are speaking to someone you care about
• Use simple labels (“Bank accounts”, “Legal papers”, “Final wishes”)
• Include key contact names and phone numbers
• Set a reminder to update your folder occasionally

Each step is a small act of care.

Talking to Loved Ones About Your Folder

Some people feel comforted by sharing their folder with a family member or trusted friend. Others prefer to keep it private until it is needed. Either approach is valid.

If you choose to share, a quiet conversation can help your loved ones understand where the folder is and how to use it, should the time come.

A Final Thought: Care in the Details

Creating an “In Case of Death” folder is less about facing the end, and more about easing the path for those who remain. It is a way of placing practical details and personal intentions somewhere they can do the most good.

At Leedam, we see planning ahead not as morbid preparation, but as a generous act of care – a small kindness that brings clarity now, and peace of mind later.