SharedAffairs launches digital estate platform in the UK

SharedAffairs has announced the launch of its digital estate planning platform in the UK, offering a simplified service aimed at easing the process of documenting assets and final wishes.

The platform by SharedAffairs arrives at a pivotal moment, as the UK anticipates a significant wealth transition of GBP £1 trillion over the coming decade. One of the main issues addressed by the platform is the avoidance of nearly GBP £40 billion in losses annually attributed to unclaimed inheritances, resulting from insufficient planning or outdated estate documents.

Kashif Barlas, Founder of SharedAffairs, stated, "SharedAffairs was born from a personal experience. During an unexpected hospital stay, I realised that estate planning isn't just about assets – it's about ensuring your family never faces confusion and additional stress during moments of grief. It's about providing peace of mind."

Designed to be intuitive, SharedAffairs allows users to start documenting their legacies swiftly, potentially within five minutes, starting small and building over time. This process is likened to the ease of using online banking systems, as highlighted by Co-Founder Farhan Ghalib, who worked on governmental software projects and partnered with Barlas, who has a background in cybersecurity.

Ghalib mentioned, "We've designed SharedAffairs to be as user-friendly as your online banking app. Users can start small, documenting a single bank account or uploading key documents, and gradually add more information as they see fit. There's no pressure to do everything at once."

The platform offers various functions, including asset documentation, where users can list their belongings, from tangible assets like property to digital assets and family heirlooms. It incorporates features such as a solicitor-approved will creation tool and an Executor Pack for guiding family members in estate administration.

One innovative feature, ChronoLock, allows users to control access to their information, designating specific individuals and the timing of access. "What sets us apart is our understanding that estate planning shouldn't be overwhelming," added Ghalib. "Users can log in for just five minutes, add a single item, and log out knowing they've made progress. They can return anytime to add more details, from cryptocurrency wallets to precious family photos, even record private video messages to be viewed by loved ones."

The founders of SharedAffairs emphasise that estate planning should be an ongoing process, not a one-off task. Barlas noted, "Estate planning has traditionally been seen as a one-time task. SharedAffairs transforms it into an accessible, ongoing process that adapts to your changing life. With our 30-day free trial of premium features, there's never been a better time to start protecting your legacy and ensuring your loved ones are provided for."