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When an emergency arises, you want to be alert and emotionally available to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Searching frantically for essential information wastes valuable time and uses up mental energy you need to preserve for the urgent matter at hand. By keeping important documents easily accessible, you can keep yourself free from worrying about data and details during a challenging time.
There are 4 categories of information you should have organized for quick, future access:
While having these items is a huge step in the right direction, if they are unorganized or scattered throughout the house, they will not serve you or your family at the moment this information is needed most. Set aside a time—either an afternoon, weekend, or longer, depending on the state of your files—to gather and check off the items on the list above. Put on your favorite tunes, make a pot of coffee (or two), and set your mind to the task. One day, you or your loved ones will breathe a sigh of relief and realize this was time well spent.
Once you get all your documents together, create an organizational system to make them easy to find. A simple binder divided with the sections mentioned above may be all you need. You may also want to scan your documents in order to have digital copies on hand as well, a good idea in case of fire or flood. Whatever system you use, make sure it makes sense to loved ones who may have to access the information as well. Consider creating a master “map” for the rest of the documents that explains where they are located, whom to contact, and any passwords for online accounts. Of course, you will have to carefully consider who has access to your files, or at the very least, the master document.
Identifying, locating, and organizing your documents is key to giving you and your loved ones peace of mind should an emergency sneak up. You will be prepared with the vital information you need. Feeling overwhelmed about setting up your emergency plan or making other plans for the future? Wylkan Estate Planning can help! Contact us to set up an appointment today.
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