Organize Your Important Papers and Get Personal and Financial Affairs in Order
The initial phase of organizing your personal matters involves gathering all essential personal, financial, and legal information into a structured format that serves both your current needs and benefits your family in the future. This represents a wise move and wonderful gift to your family.
Key Information Categories to Organize
Contacts
Compile names and telephone numbers for close associates, healthcare providers, legal representatives, accountants, investment professionals, and insurance brokers.
Medical Information
Document all medications currently taken, including any known allergies and existing health conditions.
Personal Documents
Collect original copies of birth certificates, Social Security cards, marriage licenses, tax filings, and military discharge documentation.
Digital Assets
Create an inventory of online accounts including social media profiles, banking platforms, and utility accounts you manage electronically, with usernames and passwords noted.
Pets
Provide care instructions for any animals in your household.
End of Life
Specify preferences regarding organ and tissue donation, funeral arrangements, and contact information for any pre-arranged funeral services, including payment status.
Wills and Trusts
Maintain original copies of your will and other estate planning instruments.
Advance Health Care Directives
Include living wills and medical power of attorney documents outlining your medical treatment preferences when you cannot decide independently.
Financial Accounts
List bank accounts, investment accounts, and mutual funds, plus all other financial holdings.
Debts and Liabilities
Document mortgages, vehicle loans, educational loans, medical debts, credit obligations, and include account numbers and creditor contact information.
Company Benefits
Record retirement plans, pension details, and health insurance benefits from current or former employers with administrator contacts.
Insurance
Catalog all insurance policies (life, long-term care, home, auto, Medicare, supplemental coverage, prescriptions) with policy numbers and agent information.
Property
Note all real estate, vehicles, and personal property owned, rented, or leased, including supporting documents like deeds and titles.
Storage and Maintenance
Keep all organized materials in an easily accessible location, such as a fireproof filing cabinet or home safe. Review and update this information annually, and ensure your loved ones know where to locate it.
Professional Assistance
The Stegall Law Firm offers support with elder law and estate planning matters. Contact us to schedule a consultation if you need guidance organizing your affairs and ensuring your estate plan is complete.
