Disaster-proof your important papers
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Be sure you have backups
Software won't do you much good if it's in a computer that a flood has carried away. So no matter which software program you use, make a backup and store it away from your home. "Update your floppy disk about every 90 days and add it to the safe-deposit box," Williams says.

So no matter how you organize your records or where you store them, the bottom line is to take action today. Be sure to involve your family, friends and financial professionals whenever possible in decision making and planning. Do it now, before the unexpected becomes a harsh reality.

What to collect

Bank account records Marriage certificates or divorce decrees Identification records (driver's license, green card, passport, etc.) Titles, deeds, registrations for property and vehicles owned Mortgage and other loan information Insurance policies Investment records Credit-card statements Employer benefit statements Income tax information (copies of past returns, proof of estimated tax payments) Report of earnings from Social Security Social Security card Trusts Wills Birth certificates

Write down contact information for:

Banks and other financial institutions Employer Insurance agents Power, light, gas or other utility companies

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-- Posted: August 29, 2005