Many people leave behind dozens of online accounts after death — from email and cloud storage to streaming, subscriptions, banking apps and social media. Each may need to be closed, transferred or carefully managed.

In many cases, probate can be handled without a lawyer — but it depends on the estate. Simpler situations may be manageable alone, while complex cases often benefit from professional help.

If someone dies without a will, the estate is divided according to intestacy laws — usually following a legal order of relatives, with rules that vary between countries. Unmarried partners and stepchildren often aren’t included.

After a death, there’s often far more paperwork than people expect — from closing digital accounts to managing insurance, a number of smaller admin tasks quietly appear over time.

End-of-life planning can be a tough subject to bring up — but it doesn’t have to be awkward. With the right timing, a gentle tone, and a practical approach, it’s possible to start the conversation in a way that feels thoughtful, kind, and grounded.

After a death, many people face a wave of unfamiliar admin — from probate and paperwork to family questions, time-sensitive tasks and emotional strain — all at a time when grief makes everything harder.

In the days and weeks after a death, it’s easy to feel lost — practically and emotionally. This gentle, clear checklist outlines some of the most important steps to take, at your own pace and in your own time.

In the chaos and emotion that follow a death, it’s easy for certain tasks and details to slip through the cracks. From forgotten accounts to overlooked paperwork, this is a gentle guide to some of the most commonly missed things — and how to stay on top of them.

A clear, down-to-earth explanation of what probate is, when it’s needed, and how to approach it — especially if you’re navigating it for the first time while grieving.

One spreadsheet helps you plan ahead. The other supports families after someone has died. Understanding the difference can make it easier to choose the right tool for your situation.

End-of-life planning isn’t about being morbid — it’s about making things easier for the people you love. Even a few simple notes can offer comfort and clarity when it’s needed most. You don’t need to do everything at once. You just need somewhere to start.

After years working in probate and hearing first-hand how overwhelming it can be, I set out to create a simple tool to help. What followed was a year of quiet work, conversations, sketches, and refinements — all with one goal: to make things a little easier for families after a death.