If something happens, what will your family need to know? A checklist

What families most often get stuck on isn't the big things. It's “Where is it?” and “Who do we call?” This checklist has four parts. It's about where things are and who to contact, not what's in them.

The rule: write where, not passwords

Write “The bank statements are in the second drawer of the desk in the study.” Don't put account numbers, passwords, or PINs on the same page.
Handle passwords separately. See Leaving your digital life in order.
Make sure at least one family member knows where this list is.
Check it once a year on a set day, like your birthday.

Papers and valuables

Where your driver's license, passport, Social Security card, and health insurance or Medicare cards are
Where your checkbooks and bank statements are
House deeds, car titles, and registration
Where your safe or safe deposit box is, and who has the key or combination
Jewelry, collections, and things that mean a lot to you

Accounts and insurance

Item	What to write down
Bank accounts	Which banks, and which branch if it matters
Insurance	The insurance company, where the policy is, who your agent is and how to reach them
Social Security and pensions	Your benefits, pension plan, or retirement accounts such as a 401(k) or IRA, and where to find the paperwork
Investments	Which brokerage or bank you use
Loans and credit cards	Any loans and credit cards; whether you've lent money to anyone or co-signed a loan
Automatic payments	Which account or card pays for utilities, phone, and subscriptions

Contacts

Family and friends to notify first, with their phone numbers
Your insurance agent, lawyer, accountant, and financial advisor
HR contacts at your current or former employer
Your usual hospital and doctors

Daily life

What your pets eat, who their vet is, and who could take them in
How to care for plants or a fish tank
Who has the spare keys
Monthly bills: rent or mortgage, HOA fees, tuition
How to reach neighbors or the building manager

FAQ

Is it better to keep the list on paper or on my phone?

Both is best. Keep the paper copy where your family can find it, and the phone version is easy to update. Date the paper copy so your family knows whether it's the latest one.

How often should I update it?

Once a year, plus whenever you change jobs, move, buy insurance, or switch banks. When you update it, throw out the old copy so your family doesn't find two versions.

Is this list legally binding?

No. It's a map to help your family find things. Dividing your property takes a separate will. See Letters, wills, and advance directives.