Reader’s Opinion | The guide advises how to act when a loved one dies

in Helsingin Sanomat was a touching piece of writing (29.8.)how the death of a spouse can lead to a frustrating situation at a housing association meeting. In order for a person who had lived in the housing association for ten years to vote at the housing association meeting, he needed a power of attorney from his spouse’s estate, of which he was the sole representative.

The death of a loved one is one of the most difficult situations in life. In the midst of grief, you have to deal with numerous parties and make big decisions at a time when you have the least strength. Legislation and different operators’ own processes and rules may lead to situations like the one described.

It is of the utmost importance that the person in this life situation is supported and that the care of the deceased loved one’s affairs is made easier. The letter asked for Suomi.fih’s guide in case a loved one dies. Such a guide exists. Death of a loved one guide compiles key information on the management of practical matters and the management of the deceased’s property, such as instructions on registering the ownership of a condominium. A wide range of authorities and organizations have participated in the production of the guide, from the Association of Funeral Directors and the Association of Lawyers to Kela and the Tax Administration.

In addition to counseling, dealings related to death must be streamlined. This is the aim of the program established by the Ministry of Finance to promote the effortless management of the affairs of deceased relatives. It implements, for example, the estate’s digital shareholders’ book and digital register.

The goal is to make it easier to handle the affairs of the deceased by digitizing and automating official processes, so that relatives can calm down in the grief caused by the death of a loved one.

Rosa Arola

leading expert

Digital and Population Information Agency

The reader’s opinions are speeches written by HS readers, selected and edited by the HS editorial staff. You can leave an opinion piece or familiarize yourself with the principles of writing at the address www.hs.fi/kiryotamielipidekeisuis/.