November 2023 – Important Documents (Part II)

 

Last month we started collecting emergency information into one safe place. This month we’ll gather the rest of our vital information so we can get our lives back to normal faster after an emergency.

Week #1—Collect Identity Documents

Make two copies of the following documents. Keep them in the primary and backup locations selected last month.

·       Driver licenses (both sides)

·       Social Security cards

·       Birth certificates

·       Marriage certificate

·       Passports (picture page)

·       Current picture of each family member

Week #2—Collect Medical Information

Make two copies of the following information. Keep them in the primary and backup locations selected last month.

·       Health insurance and prescription cards (both sides)

·       Prescriptions (drug names and dosages)

·       Doctor, pediatrician, and pharmacy (name and phone)

·       Allergies for each family member

Week #3—Collect Financial Information

Make two copies of the following information. Keep them in the primary and backup locations selected last month.

·       Credit/debit cards (both sides)

·       Checking/savings account numbers

·       IRA, 401K, and investment account numbers

·       Tax returns (last 3 years)

Week #4—Collect Legal Documents

Make two copies of the following documents. Keep them in the primary and backup locations selected last month.

·       Car titles

·       Mortgage and loan documents

·       Wills, trusts, power of attorney

·       Health Care Directive

 

Extra Credit—Succession Plan

Compile a list of computer User IDs and Passwords so that if you are lost, unconscious, or deceased your family can access your smart phone, computer, email, social media, and other accounts. This is especially important if you receive bills and notices electronically.