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Why It Matters to Clearly Document Everything You Own
When we think of estate planning, we often imagine writing a will or naming guardians. But there’s another powerful — and often overlooked — part of protecting your loved ones: documenting your assets clearly.
If something unexpected happens to you, who knows where everything is?
This isn’t just about money, it’s about everything you have worked and saved for, planned, created, wished, and made happen.
From cherished photo albums (both hard copy and digital, family tree discoveries and documents), properties, to deposit boxes. We are talking about everything that you have that you want someone to know about when you pass.
And utlimately, it’s about peace of mind, love and making things easier when life feels impossibly hard.
What Happens When Assets Aren’t Documented
If your belongings, accounts, and investments aren’t clearly recorded, the following issues can occur:
Loved ones may have no idea what exists or where to find it
Your family may miss out on valuable entitlements or funds
It can lead to stressful and expensive legal processes
Assets can become “lost” in the system — and stay unclaimed
Double Grieving
Your family might be grieving and scrambling through drawers, inboxes, or old paperwork — just to find a single clue. It will already be hard enough grieving a life without you, we don’t need to make it harder.
The Power of a Simple Asset Record
By clearly documenting your assets, you:
Take a heavy burden off your family’s shoulders
Ensure that nothing is missed, delayed, or left behind
Help your executor carry out your wishes quickly and accurately
Reduce conflict or confusion among family members
This is an act of deep love and responsibility — the kind that speaks volumes even after you’re gone.
What Should You Document
Make a clear, secure list of the following in one central place that is accessible to your nominated ‘person’:
Bank accounts (including account numbers and institutions)
Investments, shares, and superannuation
Property and real estate
Vehicles and valuable personal items
Digital assets (cryptocurrency, online accounts)
Insurance policies
Passwords or access instructions, stored safely
Even a simple spreadsheet or checklist can be life-changing for your family when the time comes.
Leaving Love, Not Loose Ends
Think of it this way: if your children had to sort through your life tomorrow, what would make that easier?
A clear list of assets isn’t just paperwork — it’s love in its most practical form. It’s your way of saying, “I’ve taken care of you, even in my absence.”
Take time now to document your assets clearly. Your future self — and your family — will thank you.
Below is a downloadable template that you can use to start documenting all of your things today.
'My Things– Documented' - Template
My Things Documented
Helps you keep track of your assets, accounts, and important documents.
Access Your Template Here