What Is in Your ‘Just in Case’ File?

Life is unpredictable, and while we can not control everything, we can be prepared. A “Just in Case” file ensures that you and your loved ones have quick access to essential documents in an emergency. Whether it is a sudden illness, an accident, or an unexpected passing, organizing key information now can prevent stress and confusion later.

What Should Be in Your ‘Just in Case’ File?

Not all documents are equally necessary for every situation, but having the most critical ones readily available can make a significant difference. Here is a list of things to consider including:

Essential Documents:

These are the most important items that should be easy to access:

• Legal Documents – A copy of your will, trust, powers of attorney, and living will.
• Financial Information – Bank account details, retirement accounts, investment portfolios, life insurance policies, and outstanding debts.
• Identification & Important Records – Birth certificates, marriage certificates, Social Security cards, passports, and any military service records.
• Medical Information – A list of medications, allergies, healthcare providers, and health insurance details.
• Key Contacts – Names and numbers of family members, attorneys, financial advisors, and insurance agents.

Additional Documents to Consider:

These may be helpful depending on your personal circumstances:

• Household & Property Information – Deeds, mortgage details, home insurance policies, utility account information, and a list of trusted service providers (plumber, electrician, etc.).
• Pet Care Instructions – Veterinary records, vaccination history, and emergency contacts for pet care if needed.
• Digital Assets & Online Accounts – Logins and passwords for email, social media, cloud storage, financial accounts, and subscription services. Consider using a password manager or leaving access instructions in a secure location.
• Safe Deposit Box & Storage Units – Location, key/code details, and a list of contents.
• Funeral & Final Wishes – Preferences for burial or cremation, service details, obituary instructions, and any prepaid funeral arrangements.
• Business Documents (if applicable) – Business ownership documents, succession plans, and key operational details.
• Automobile Information – Titles, loan details, insurance policies, and maintenance records.

While not every document may be needed immediately, having these details in one place can provide invaluable guidance to your loved ones during difficult times.

Why It Matters

Without a centralized location for important documents (for our clients we organize all documents in their estate planning portfolio), loved ones may struggle to find what they need in a crisis. A well-organized “Just in Case” file can help prevent unnecessary stress and delays in making financial or medical decisions, ensuring that your wishes are carried out properly—especially in estate matters and medical emergencies. It also makes it easier for family members to manage day-to-day responsibilities if you become incapacitated and provides peace of mind, knowing that everything is in order.

How to Keep It Secure

Your “Just in Case” file should be easy to access in an emergency but also well-protected from unauthorized access. Here is how to balance security with accessibility:

Physical Copies – Store a hard copy in a fireproof and waterproof safe. Consider providing a trusted individual, such as your spouse or executor, with access.

Digital Backups – Scan and store documents in an encrypted cloud storage service or an external hard drive. However, digital files are only helpful if someone can access them when needed. Make sure at least one trusted person has the necessary login credentials, including passwords, two-step verification codes, and instructions for email retrieval or account recovery. Without these details, even a well-organized digital backup could be locked away when it is needed most.

Get Help Organizing Your Legal Documents

Creating a “Just in Case” file now can spare your loved ones unnecessary stress and hardship in the future. If you need assistance organizing your legal documents as part of your estate plan, Wilson Law is here to help. Call us at 866.603.5976 or fill out our online form, and we will be in touch to schedule a time that works for you.