When someone dies, grief is hard enough. But for many families, the pain is made worse by confusion, paperwork and unanswered questions. Our recent research found that 41% of people have helped deal with someone’s estate after death. Of those, 40% said it caused family tension or serious stress.
These numbers reveal something important. The practical side of death can be as emotionally draining as the loss itself, especially when there is no clear plan in place. Loved ones are left trying to make sense of documents, accounts and wishes, often at a time when they have the least capacity to cope.
When Grief Meets Administration
Without preparation, even simple tasks can become overwhelming. Many people told us they would not know what to do if a loved one died tomorrow. Estates can take months to resolve, and misunderstandings between family members can quickly turn into conflict.
In some cases, vital information goes missing altogether. Passwords, insurance details and financial records can be hard to find. The lack of clarity can leave relatives feeling lost and anxious, unsure where to begin or how to make the right decisions.
The Cost of Not Knowing
The stress of dealing with an unprepared estate is not only emotional but also practical. Delays can cause financial hardship, increase legal costs and prolong the grieving process. Families who might otherwise support one another can find themselves pulled apart by uncertainty.
Our study showed that 53% of people would want a step-by-step checklist to guide them through what to do when someone dies. This reflects a real need for simplicity and guidance at a time when people are at their most vulnerable.
Making Things Easier for the People You Love
Planning ahead does not have to be complicated. Even a few clear steps can make a lasting difference. Start by keeping your key information together in one place. Include your will, insurance details, bank accounts, property documents and passwords. Make sure someone you trust knows how to access them.
Writing down your wishes, even briefly, can help your family make decisions with confidence. Whether it is your preferred funeral arrangements, messages for loved ones, or who should handle your estate, clarity now means peace later.
Clarity, Not Chaos
We believe that organisation is an act of care. By keeping everything in one secure space, you protect your family from confusion and conflict. When the time comes, they will have what they need to focus on healing, not hunting for paperwork.
Preparation may not change the sadness of loss, but it can remove the added agony that so many families face. It gives your loved ones the gift of guidance, so they can grieve without the weight of uncertainty.
Your legacy, organised. Your family, supported.