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Documents Checklist: What Your Executor Needs

A printable list of every document your executor will hunt for, with room to write where each one lives.

When someone dies, the executor’s first job is a treasure hunt, and the map is usually missing. This checklist is the map. Work through it while things are calm, note where each document lives, print it, and keep it with your will.

Identity and family Government identification and Social Insurance Number record Birth certificate or citizenship papers Marriage, partnership, or divorce papers The will, and any codicils Directive and power of attorney documents

Money and property Bank and investment account list, with institutions Insurance policies: life, home, auto, and group benefits Property deeds and mortgage papers Vehicle registrations Registered account beneficiary designations

Funeral and final arrangements Burial plot papers or cremation wishes Funeral prearrangement contract, if one exists Organ and tissue donation registration Letters of wishes and personal gifts list

Taxes, work, and digital life Last two tax returns and Canada Revenue Agency account note Employer and pension contact details Password manager or digital accounts note Contact list: lawyer or notary, accountant, funeral home

Nothing you type here is sent anywhere or stored. Print it, fill the rest in by hand if you prefer, and keep it where your executor can find it. General information only, not legal advice.