
Over the years, you’ve probably collected a lot of “stuff”, right? But do you know what you have? Where it’s all located? What’s important? What’s not important? How long do you need to keep it?
Use the following as a guideline to help you get and keep your important information personal and family records safe and organized.
PERSONAL and FAMILY RECORDS
What? |
Where? |
How long? |
---|---|---|
Birth, marriage and death certificates | Safe deposit box or fireproof home storage | Permanently |
Adoption and custody papers | Safe deposit box or fireproof home storage | Permanently |
Citizenship papers | Safe deposit box or fireproof home storage | Permanently |
Divorce and separation papers | Safe deposit box or fireproof home storage | Permanently |
Military papers | Safe deposit box or fireproof home storage | Permanently |
Will | Safe deposit box (if jointly rented); copy with spouse or executor | Until a new one is made |
Living will; durable power of attorney for health care; values dialogue | Home file, safe deposit box, copies with agents, family members and primary physician | Permanently Update as needed |
Passports | Safe deposit box or fireproof home storage | Until replaced |
Social security card | Home file (locked) | Permanently |
Diplomas, transcripts | Home file | Permanently |
Medical history and records | Home file | Permanently Update as needed |
Employment records | Home file | Permanently |
Valuable documents inventory | Home file; copy with executor or family member | Permanently Update as needed |