How to Organise Finances and Documents in Time?

My father was recently diagnosed and still manages his affairs, but I'm starting to notice him forgetting about bills and paperwork. I don't know where to start to organise his finances and documents before it gets more difficult. What should I deal with first?

You've done very well to think about this early. Organising finances while your father can still participate is the best way to protect his assets and avoid headaches later on.

Why it happens

In the initial stage, the person still has the legal capacity to decide and sign. As the condition progresses, managing accounts, authorising expenses, or dealing with banks becomes difficult or impossible. Anticipating this avoids blockages and future conflicts.

Practical strategies

• Gather essential documents: citizen's card, NIF (tax identification number), bank details, contracts, deeds, pensions.
• While he can still decide, consider a power of attorney for someone trustworthy to handle matters.
• Inform yourselves about the Supported Adult regime, the legal way to protect someone who can no longer make decisions alone.
• Check for social support such as the dependency supplement (Social Security, 300 502 502).
• Simplify: direct debits for accounts, a securely stored list of access details and passwords.

What NOT to do

• Do not move money from his accounts without legal authorisation, to protect both yourself and him.
• Do not delay: the later you leave it, the more complicated it becomes to get his cooperation.

When to seek professional help

A lawyer or notary can advise on power of attorney and the Supported Adult regime. Social Security (300 502 502) clarifies support, and the doctor can issue reports to support requests, such as a certificate of incapacity.

"We sorted out the power of attorney in time. When my father could no longer sign, everything was resolved without any hitches." — Anonymous Carer