How to Store Your Estate Documents

Your estate planning documents include things like your will, living trust, financial and health care powers of attorney, health care directive, life insurance, deeds and more. These documents are critical in making sure your assets are passed along correctly. So, where should you keep them?

Many people turn to their home file cabinet. Your home files are easy for your executor and family members to access. But those files probably aren’t protected against theft, fire or water damage.

Here are some ways to keep those documents safe. You can also reach out to a Farm Bureau agent if you’ve been thinking about protection for your family and belongings.

Home Safe

A home safe is almost as convenient as your home file cabinet, and you can get one that’s fireproof and waterproof and gives you some protection against theft. Be sure to share the combination or a key, so your loved ones can access it easily. 

Probate Court

Your local probate court may address where to keep a will, but you can’t keep other documents needed for estate planning there. Plus, you’ll have to replace your will there if you make any changes to it. And these wills are public documents, so anyone can see it.

Safe Deposit Box

Many banks offer safe, secure areas where you can store important documents and other valuables. Make sure to talk to your bank if you want to open a safe deposit box to be sure it will be easy for your executor to access it.

Your Lawyer’s Office

Your attorney will probably allow you to store your documents at their office. Ask what kind of fire, water and theft protections are in place, and make sure your executor has your attorney’s contact information.

Document Storage Facility

Although document storage facilities are more commonly used for businesses that need to store larger volumes of files, they might be an option to consider for your personal documents.

Digital Information

While not part of your estate planning documents, it’s helpful for your executor or loved ones to have access to your social media accounts, bank accounts, online subscriptions and services and more. You may want to share this information electronically or keep a printout stored securely with your other documents.

Keep Your Loved Ones Informed

Whatever option you choose, be sure your executor and loved ones know where your estate planning documents are and how they can access them. If you’re incapacitated or you’ve passed away, they may have decisions to make and directives to follow. Being able to easily get the information they need can make their tasks a little bit easier.

It’s also a good idea for these people to have copies of your documents. Copies won’t work officially, but they can help your loved ones know what your expectations are.

Are Your Estate Planning Documents in Order?

Maybe instead of storing your estate planning documents, you need to work on getting them set up. Making decisions about your health, finances and estate, and thinking about your health and future can be tough. 

At Farm Bureau, our agents and advisors work with people like you to answer estate planning questions and make sure you have your documents prepared. Reach out for a consultation and find out how we can help make the process a little easier.