Getting your later-life affairs in order protects you and takes pressure off your family. Use this free checklist, tick things off as you go, and print it to keep with your important papers.
Money & income
- List all pensions, bank accounts, savings and investments in one place.
- Check you’re claiming all benefits you’re entitled to (e.g. Attendance Allowance, Pension Credit).
- Review pension death-benefit nominations so the right people inherit.
Your home & equity
- Decide whether to stay, downsize or consider equity release.
- If considering equity release, take advice from an Equity Release Council member.
Protect your family
- Decide if you need life cover or a funeral plan.
- Review Inheritance Tax exposure — see our IHT guide.
Legal & decisions
- Make or update your will.
- Set up both types of lasting power of attorney (property & financial; health & welfare).
- Note your funeral wishes (burial/cremation, music, requests).
Make it findable
- Tell a trusted person where your documents are kept.
- Keep a secure list of online accounts and key contacts (solicitor, adviser, GP).
A general guide to help you plan — not financial or legal advice. For wills, power of attorney, tax and regulated products, take professional advice. Last reviewed June 2026.