
How to store and keep important documents safe Driver’s license-For settling vehicle and driver’s license records.Medicare card-For reporting the death of a Medicare beneficiary.Current bills-For preparing household budget and discussing with attorney.Social Security card-For applying for Social Security benefits.Retirement plans, brokerage accounts, mutual funds, stocks, bonds, real estate deeds, joint billing statements, automobile registration, other insurance contracts (e.g., fire, homeowners, auto)-For changing beneficiary and names on joint accounts.Deceased’s employee benefit statements-For determining benefits available to survivors.Certificate of appointment (for estate executor or other fiduciary responsibility)-For processing claims and/or disposing of assets.Business agreements (i.e., buy-sell agreement, partnership documents)-For providing to attorney.Dated obituary notice and newspaper articles-For processing some claims.Marriage certificate(s)/domestic partnership agreement-For filing to receive benefits from Social Security, VA and/or state/employer.Will, summary of assets (if no will exists)-For providing to attorney and/or surrogate court.Certified death certificates-For processing claims, entering safe deposit box, filing tax returns, Social Security and/or veteran benefits.Original life insurance/annuity policy-For filing claims and finding out payment information.Here is a list of many of the important documents they will need: What documents are important for final affairs?Īs your family, executor and estate attorney settle your final affairs and complete the probate and trust settlement process, there are many essential documents they will need throughout the process. Also, check out our handy important end-of-life document checklist, which you can download, fill out and share with your loved ones. To help you get organized, we’re going to share important information on the documents you need to locate and organize, plus safe ways to store them. This way, your loved ones won’t be scramblingĪround searching for your documents during what’s already a confusing and To carry out your final arrangements is to have all of your important documents One important way to give your family the answers they need There are many questions when a loved one dies-so why notĪnswer as many as possible now, while you’re here? When you have your ducks inĪ row NOW it takes care of your family THEN, making their time of loss and Preparingįor your passing isn’t something you do for yourself. You’re spending time with family and friends, but it shouldn’t be. The end of your life is the last thing you think about when
