It seems that we have worked for many years to acquire the items in our home. But then we think we also have many (sometimes too many) items stuffed in the back closet, the garage and the storage shed. It can be a bit overwhelming to realize how much ‘stuff’ we actually have. And as we get older, we wonder what will happen to our belongings when we die. It’s not a morbid thought. On the contrary, it’s pretty sensible and selfless. Whether downsizing or decluttering, now might be the perfect time for Swedish Death Cleaning.

What Is Swedish Death Cleaning?

Swedish Death Cleaning is a method of organizing and decluttering your home and storage areas before you die to lessen the burden of your loved ones having to do this. A new TV show on HGTV has introduced this method of decluttering to Americans – any many people are wondering if they should start Swedish death cleaning too!

There are 3 thought ideas for Swedish Death Cleaning:

• When you clean your excess items before you pass, you make it easier on the ones you leave behind. You may have had to clean your parents or other loved ones’ homes after they passed away. It’s a hard and tedious chore. But with Swedish Death Cleaning, your loved ones will have an easier job since you have already pared down the items you don’t need anymore.
• The second benefit of Swedish Death Cleaning is the idea that when you get rid of excess stuff surrounding you, you can enjoy the important items. Plus, you may feel less stressed and more focused when living in a clean and organized space.
• Another benefit of this practice is it helps you face your own mortality. Once you accept that we will all die, and maybe sooner rather than later, you can start getting your affairs in order. Once you have removed all unnecessary items from your home, you can begin organizing the legal documents required after your death.

Working With An Estate Attorney

Now is the perfect time to write or update your will or trust, especially since you may need to update your assets. You can also ensure you have established a health care directive and power of attorney.

An experienced estate planning attorney can help you organize your legal documents concerning your home, health and assets. At Estate and Probate Legal Group, we will help make sure you have all the paperwork you need to help with end-of-life decisions and what to do with your assets after you’re gone. We will also help you review everything to make sure you don’t have any uncoordinated benefits. For example, you cannot include your life insurance in your will.

Oak Brook Estate Planning Attorney

Now that you have completed Swedish Death Cleaning, you can do the same with your estate planning documents. Contact one of our Illinois lawyers today and schedule an appointment at 630-864-5835. We will review all aspects of your estate plan. 

AREAS WE SERVE: DuPage, Kane, Lake and Will counties.