One of the most important things you can do for your personal finances is to create a document box. This document box should be fireproof (you can find them in a variety of sizes and prices ranging from about $20 to more than $100). This is important, because in the case of fire or flood or other disaster, it is nice
to be able to get what you need quickly, and get out. I also like to have between $200 and $600 in cash in my document box as well, just in case the bank is inaccessible and downed lines prevent credit card use.
You can grab the box to take with you, or if you need to leave quickly, you can leave it, and its impervious nature will keep the documents safe until you come back for them. Here are the items that A. Scott White, a financial planner, suggests you keep in your document box:
Technorati Tags: Document box, document box fireproof, financial documents, Financial planner, personal finances, personal finances document boxChecking and savings account numbers
Copies of documents for you and your family members:
Driver’s license
Social Security card
Marriage license
Birth certificate
Will
Power of attorney
Property deeds
All investment and retirement account numbers
Home, life and medical insurance policies
A list of crucial contact information
Insurance agent(s)
Attorney
Bank
Financial advisor
Family, friends or other key people you may need to reach in an emergency
Trusted home repair contractors
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