Websters definition of ‘organize’ is to arrange by systematic planning and united effort. I like to think that having a system and making an effort helps keep my cases organized. And it helps when our clients think the same way. I realize that many times Mom, Dad or your spouse didnt tell you where they keep their important documents, their bills, or even their identification.
So when it comes time to help them out in a crisis, you are now in the middle of Hide and Seek. In planning ahead, it is always a good idea to let a loved one know where you keep your stuff. There are several documents that you will need in a time of crisis, so why not be prepared now and save yourself the aggravation; you will already have enough to worry about.
Here are some items that you may need to get your hands on:
- Of course, there will always be that one thing that is needed that you cannot find, but it will make life easier on yourself if you start getting this information in a location that can be found. Its pretty hard to win the game of Hide-and-Seek if you dont even know where to start looking.
- Social Security cards
- health Insurance cards
- military discharge records
- deeds to properties
- cemetery lot records
- stock certificates
- vehicle titles
- bank statements
- life insurance policies
- tax returns
- any and all legal documents that have been created
Of course, there will always be that one thing that is needed that you cannot find, but it will make life easier on yourself if you start getting this information in a location that can be found. It’s pretty hard to win the game of Hide-and-Seek if you don’t even know where to start looking.
