Important Papers to Keep 

Keep the documents you need in a secure place, such as a safe-deposit box or a locked fireproof file at home. Below are the items you should maintain. To document them, use our Important Papers Checklist.

• Auto title
• Birth certificates for yourself and any dependent children
• DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
• Deeds and records of major purchases
• Insurance policies
• Investment and bank records, including account numbers
• Legal documents
• Marriage certificate
• Medical and dental care providers’ names and contact information
• Passport
• Power of attorney
• Social Security card
• Tax returns and checking account records (for the past seven years)
• Will or revocable living trust
• A list of beneficiaries on your retirement and other financial accounts