This article is general education, not individual financial, insurance, legal, or tax advice. Your needs and applicable rules may differ.
The essentials
Include an overview of household expenses, account and policy inventory, creditor contacts, and the location of important legal and identification documents.
Avoid leaving sensitive originals or passwords in an unsecured binder.
Instructions for a helper
Name professional contacts and explain where to find benefit information, bill due dates, and any care arrangements.
Indicate who has authority to act under applicable documents.
Keep it current and secure
Store the binder or encrypted equivalent where authorized people can access it during an emergency. Review after changes in accounts, beneficiaries, or household members.
Consult counsel about the legal documents that make the instructions usable.
Explore the full guide
The Family Financial Emergency Plan
