Death – what you need to know, at a glance

Do you already know how you want to bequeath your assets to your heirs? Or do you also want to include third-party beneficiaries? You can arrange all of these aspects of your personal estate. You should under all circumstances do so in good time because they are also subject to statutory rules. Of course, you can continue to make changes as needed.

Do you agree that your assets should be divided among your blood relatives as prescribed by law? If that is what you want, you do not need to make a will. But perhaps you would like to bequeath the freely disposable portion to someone else? For example, to someone you are fond of, or to a charity? In such cases, a will is essential to make sure your estate is divided as you wish.

Nevertheless, note that only what is set out in your hand-written will is legally binding and conclusive. You can also make verbal agreements with your heirs. If one of your heirs disputes what has been agreed, however, verbal agreements are not legally binding.

Your digital footprint is probably bigger than you think. Most social networks collect and evaluate your data and use it for various purposes. In the event of death it is often difficult or even impossible for relatives to gain access to all relevant accounts, cloud archives and profiles. Without access to the data, family members cannot prevent the continued receipt of birthday reminders or contact invitations for the deceased for many years.

One of the easiest and most effective solutions is to store access data for all profiles and online accounts in a safe place known to one or more trusted people.

Arranging a funeral is not easy for those in mourning. It is much simpler if all of the arrangements have been made in advance. There are various options available: municipal cemetery regulations are very liberal with regard to funeral arrangements. While burial is based on the deceased’s final place of residence, ashes can be interred almost anywhere following cremation.

Relatives can take the ashes of the deceased home with them, scatter them in the mountains, bury them in the woods, or scatter them in a river or lake. There are also special parks and memorial forests. You are free to choose, providing that you do not violate the rights of property owners.

Points to consider:

• Discuss wishes: if you have special wishes regarding your funeral, you should discuss your wishes with your family and record them in writing.
• Financing: funeral expenses can vary considerably depending on the municipality. To reduce the financial burden on your relatives, you can, for example, place funds for your funeral expenses in a special account or take out death benefit insurance with a beneficiary.