People die. It happens. Even our healthiest friends and acquaintances will die. Many of us have stories of people in our lives who have died and left everything in perfect order for those that remain. All relevant passwords are in a password keeper, and the key is left with a trusted loved one. Bank accounts, credit lines, regular payments, and other obligations are documented, and permissions for access are defined. Of course, many of us also have stories of the alternative scenario where nothing is documented, and the family is left to figure it all out from breadcrumbs.

Each group has its reasons, and it often relates to available time, level of importance, and sometimes, a belief that there will be time later to figure things out. Whether you are beginning your life journey, mid-career, or enjoying retirement, this is an excellent time to assess your current state of readiness—or rather, your readiness for what you will leave behind. There are many lists to help you assess and plan, like the Advance Care Planning Guide from the National Institute on Aging.

Most guidelines focus on planning to specify how your estate will be handled, designating a power of attorney, and the many other personal financial elements we manage. What is often missing is the part of your life that exists online.