Estate Planning Checklist - Do Not Forget Your Personal Items

Most estate planning checklists focus on financial assets, property, superannuation, and legal documents. These are critical components of a solid estate plan.

But there is one category that is almost always overlooked - personal belongings.

Why personal belongings are often ignored

Legal documents are structured around financial distribution. Wills frequently use broad terms such as "personal effects" or "household contents." While legally valid, these phrases do not provide practical clarity.

They do not explain who receives the watch, the wedding ring, the tools, the dining table, or the family photo albums.

This gap is where many inheritance disputes begin.

The complete estate planning checklist

Below is a simplified checklist to ensure your estate planning covers more than just money.

1 - Legal foundation

• Valid will
• Appointed executor
• Power of attorney
• Updated beneficiary nominations

2 - Financial assets

• Bank accounts
• Investments
• Property
• Insurance policies

3 - Personal belongings

• Jewellery and heirlooms
• Collectibles and antiques
• Artwork
• Tools and hobby equipment
• Furniture with sentimental value
• Photos and keepsakes

Most people complete sections 1 and 2. Very few complete section 3 clearly.

Why executors struggle with personal items

Executors are legally responsible for administering the estate. However, when it comes to personal belongings, they often face emotional negotiations between family members.

If your wishes are unclear, your executor becomes the referee.

Clear documentation removes this burden.

How to properly document personal belongings

• Identify items with emotional or financial value
• Assign each item to a specific person
• Add brief context where helpful
• Keep the list updated as circumstances change

Where Who Gets What fits into your estate plan

Who Gets What is built specifically to solve the overlooked part of estate planning - personal belongings distribution.

It works alongside your will and provides practical clarity for your executor and family.

• Record items quickly
• Assign each item clearly
• Add notes or stories
• Export for clarity