My kids don’t know anything about my finances. I have a will, but no guide to the Beancount system—account names, where assets are, how to access Git repo. If something happens to me, my spouse would see a ledger and think “what is Assets:Brokerage:VTI?”
I keep meaning to write documentation, but… life. Does anyone have a template for “here’s how to understand my financial system” for heirs?
Document everything while you’re alive. Future-you’s family will be grateful.
I have a one-page “financial playbook” I update yearly: bank login instructions, Beancount folder location, account structure explanation (in plain English, not accounting jargon), emergency contacts, insurance info. Kept in fireproof safe, copy with lawyer. Took 2 hours to write, 30 minutes annual update. When I tested it—gave it to my brother—he understood where everything was in 10 minutes. Best time investment ever.
The “plain English explanation” is key.
Exactly. I’m creating a one-pager for each major account (what it’s for, how to access it, what to do if I die). It’s morbid, but freeing—feels like I’m taking responsibility seriously finally.