Papers to Keep Permanently
Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof storage for the home.
Adoption and Custody Papers
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof storage for the home.
Citizenship and Naturalization Papers
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof storage for the home.
Separation and Divorce Paperwork
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof storage for the home.
Settlement Agreements
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof storage for the home.
Military Documents
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof home storage.
Social Security Card
In the past, we were told to carry our card with us, but the SSA now advises that the card not be carried with us, unless we are using it to show an employer or for other specific identification purposes. Store in fireproof home storage.
Diplomas and Transcripts
Store in fireproof home storage or safe deposit box.
Medical History
Store in a home file and update as needed.
Employment Records
Store in a home file.
Inventory of Valuable Papers
Store in a home file. Keep a copy with a trusted friend. Update annually.
Inventory of Household Goods and Appraisals
Store in a safe deposit box with a copy in your home file. This should be updated at least once a year.
Audit Records
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof home storage.
Insurance Records
Store in safe deposit box or fireproof home storage.
IRA Contributions
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof home storage.
Real Estate Records
Store in a safe deposit box or fireproof home storage. These include real property deeds, title papers, abstracts, mortgage and lien documents, tax assessment notices, purchase contracts, and records of capital improvements. Be sure to include any rental properties.
Tax Returns and Supporting Documentation
Store in safe deposit box or fireproof home storage.
Advance Directive(living will/durable power of attorney for health care)
Store copies in your home file, safe deposit box, and copies with your agents. Update as needed.
Insurance Policies and Records of Claims
Store in your home file with a list of policies in your safe deposit box. Update as needed.
