When your paperwork is organized and easy to locate, your loved ones and the people you choose to carry out your wishes will know what to do when the time comes.
Here are the key documents you should keep.
Your core estate planning documents
Your first priority is to store the paperwork that forms your estate plan in one secure location. Having everything in one place makes it easier for the people you trust to find your instructions when they need them.
Your estate plan may include:
- Your will
- Any trust agreements
- Financial and medical powers of attorney
- Your advance health care directive or living will
Because these records work together, storing them in different places could make it harder for your executor or trusted representative to understand your wishes and carry them out.
Asset and beneficiary records
Include documents that show what you own and who should receive certain assets. These records give your executor or trustee a clearer understanding of your estate, making it easier to identify what you own and how they should handle those assets.
Depending on your situation, you may want to keep:
- Property deeds and vehicle titles
- Beneficiary designation confirmations for life insurance and retirement accounts
- A current list of your major bank accounts, investments and other significant assets
Review these records from time to time so they reflect major life events, such as buying a home, getting married or welcoming a child.
Important personal and contact information
Keep key personal information with your estate plan so your representative knows where to begin. A little preparation now can save your loved ones time and uncertainty later.
Consider including:
- Contact information for your executor, trustee or attorney
- Marriage, divorce, birth or adoption records if they relate to your plan
- A list of where you stored your original estate planning papers and other important records
If you have online accounts, store instructions for accessing them separately in a secure location instead of writing down passwords with the rest of your estate planning materials. Many online services also offer features that let you designate a trusted person to access your account if needed.
Keep your estate plan ready when it matters most
An organized estate plan is easier for your loved ones to use when they need it most. As your life changes, take time to replace outdated paperwork and add new records so everything stays accurate and complete. If you are unsure whether it still reflects your wishes or includes everything you need, seeking legal guidance can help you review your documents and make the necessary updates.