If something happened to you, would your family know where to find your will, insurance policies, or car title? Searching for papers during a crisis or a time of grief is hard. This free one-page map lists where everything is kept, without writing down account numbers or passwords, so the people you trust can find what they need.
Where to Find My Important Papers
A one-page map for the people you trust, if they ever need it.
About This Page
Write where each item is kept, not the account numbers or passwords themselves. Keep this page somewhere safe, like a fire safe, and tell a trusted person where it is.
My Important Documents
| Document | Where it is | Notes or contact |
|---|---|---|
| Birth certificate | ||
| Social Security card | ||
| Passport | ||
| Marriage or divorce papers | ||
| Will or trust | ||
| Power of attorney (finances) | ||
| Health care proxy or advance directive | ||
| Insurance policies (life, home, auto) | ||
| Medicare and health insurance cards | ||
| Property deed, mortgage, or lease | ||
| Vehicle titles | ||
| Bank and retirement accounts (names of institutions only) | ||
| Recent tax returns | ||
| Safe deposit box and key | ||
| Where passwords are kept (not the passwords) | ||
| Funeral or burial wishes |
People to Contact
A little planning now is a gift to the people you love. Chances.org
Tips for keeping it safe and useful
- Never write account numbers, PINs, or passwords on this page. Just say where things are kept.
- Store it somewhere safe, like a fire safe, and tell your agent or a trusted family member where to find it.
- Missing a document? Note it, and make a plan to replace it. Many records, like birth certificates, can be ordered from your state's vital records office.
- Review it once a year, perhaps on your birthday, and update the date at the top.
Don't have a will, power of attorney, or advance directive yet? Free legal aid offices and many senior centers can help. See our Free Legal Help guide.
Want more help? Read How to Care for an Aging Parent, or see all the tools in The Chances Toolbox.