Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late: Start Your End-of-Life & Funeral Planning with this Free Checklist
Kickstart Your Planning With This Free Tool
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
No one likes to think about death—let alone plan for it. It feels heavy. Uncomfortable. Easy to put off for “later.”
But here’s the truth: when someone passes without a plan in place, what’s already a heartbreaking time becomes a chaotic one, too. Family members are left to guess at wishes, dig through drawers looking for documents, and make big financial decisions—all while grieving.
End-of-life planning isn't about being morbid. It's about being kind.
And it doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why we created a Free End-of-Life & Funeral Planning Checklist—to help you (or someone you love) get organized, clearly and calmly.
This blog post will walk you through exactly what’s inside the checklist, why it matters, and how to start using it today—even if you feel totally overwhelmed.
Why End-of-Life Planning Is So Important
Let’s talk about what happens when there isn’t a plan.
Loved ones are forced to make difficult decisions. Burial or cremation? Open or closed casket? What music should play? Should we spend $3,000 on a casket or keep it simple? These are the kinds of questions families face without guidance.
Important information may be hard to find. Passwords. Insurance documents. Advance directives. If no one knows where they are—or that they exist—it can delay everything from funeral arrangements to probate.
It adds emotional strain during a crisis. When everything’s a mystery, even small decisions feel overwhelming. And family members may not agree on what’s “right.”
On the other hand, when you take time to plan…
Your wishes are honored
Your family feels confident, not confused
You make the hard days a little easier for the people you love most
What’s Included in the Free Checklist
Our checklist is designed to be approachable and thorough, guiding you step-by-step through the areas that matter most. Here’s what it includes:
Important Documents to Gather
Will or trust
Power of attorney
Life insurance policies
Financial and banking records
Passwords and account logins
Medical Preferences
Advance directive or living will
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders
Organ and tissue donation wishes
Primary physician and specialist contacts
Funeral & Memorial Planning
Burial or cremation preference
Type of service (traditional, celebration of life, etc.)
Preferred location, music, readings, and officiant
Special requests (dress code, flowers, donations)
Personal Details & Contacts
Emergency contact list
Key people to notify
Locations of personal effects or heirlooms
Digital Legacy
Instructions for social media accounts
Password storage
Online photo albums or digital keepsakes
Common Questions, Answered
“What if I don’t have all the answers yet?”
That’s totally okay. This checklist is a starting point, not a contract. You can work through the steps and fill out what you know and come back to the rest later.
“I’m healthy. Should I really be doing this now?”
Yes. Planning while you’re well gives you full control and saves your family the pain of guessing. It’s an act of love—not something that only belongs to the sick or elderly.
“Is this checklist and Planned with Purpose LLC’s tools legally binding?”
No. These items are not a legal documents, but they can accompany your official documents (like a will or power of attorney). It helps your family understand your wishes clearly and quickly.
“Can I update it over time?”
Absolutely. Life changes—so your plans might too. We recommend reviewing your checklist every 1–2 years or after major life events.
How This Checklist Helps Your Family
Grief is hard enough. Your checklist helps ease the weight by giving your family:
Clarity – They’ll know what you wanted, without second-guessing
Confidence – Decisions are easier when there’s a guide
Connection – Your planning can even bring family members closer, creating space for important conversations
Planning also minimizes conflict. When expectations are clearly outlined, there’s less room for disagreements or assumptions.
How to Use the Checklist (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Download the checklist as a printable PDF or editable digital form by filling out the form below.
Step 2: Choose a quiet time to sit with it. You don’t need to finish it all in one sitting.
Step 3: Start with the sections that feel easiest—maybe your contact list or funeral preferences.
Step 4: Acquire the recommended End-of-Life Digital Tool Bundle and Organizational Binder + Tab Set to streamline your endof-life and funeral planning. Get 10% off with code: CHECKLIST.
Step 5: Talk it over with someone you trust. This could be a spouse, adult child, or friend.
Step 6: Store your completed checklist in a safe, accessible place—and let the appropriate parties know where it is.
Step 7: Revisit it every so often to keep it up to date.
Take the First Step Today
You don’t have to plan your entire legacy in one day. But printing (or opening) this checklist? That’s one of the most meaningful first steps you can take.
When you prepare now, you’re giving a gift to your family—a gift of clarity, comfort, and peace of mind.
So go ahead. Take a deep breath, download the checklist, and begin. We’ll guide you through it.
Get the Free End-of-Life & Funeral Planning Checklist Now
Our free End-of-Life Planning Starter Checklist helps you take the first important steps — without feeling overwhelmed. It breaks down what you need to organize, from essential contacts to funeral preferences, in a simple, caring way. Many families have started here and used our full binder and planning kit to complete their plans with confidence and peace.
Fill out the form below to download your free end-of-life planning checklist today, and start taking control of your future!
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