Steps to take for your documents

Step 1: Gather your personal documents—Use the following checklist to help you gather and organize your valuable documents.
• Financial records:
.. Tax returns and property tax statements
.. Bank/credit union statements
.. Credit/debit card statements
.. Investment and retirement account records
.. All income records (including government benefi ts, child support and alimony)
.. Mortgage statement or lease
.. Bills (electric, gas, water, etc.)
• Personal records:
.. Military ID cards and records
.. Birth certifi cates or adoption papers
.. Marriage license and divorce decrees
.. Social Security cards
.. Citizenship papers
.. Passports
.. Wills and record of benefi ciaries
.. Insurance records (medical cards and records, auto, life, group accident and home or rental insurance)
.. Pet proof of ownership and vaccination records
.. Vehicle registration/ownership records
.. Powers of attorney (personal/ property)

STEP 2: Put copies of your personal documents in a waterproof, portable emergency supply kit.

STEP 3: Store all original documents, photographs and computer back-up disks in an off -site safety deposit box. Be sure to keep this key in a secure place.