Taking Care of Your Aging Parents: Important Documents

By Lynn Campisi, P.C.; Sheryl Cook, MA, CGRC; Farrar Moore, CGRC; Daniel Marson, Ph.D., P.C., and M.W. Parker, DSW, BCD, LCSW

Below is a list of important documents you should have on hand if you are making plans to take care of your aging parents. Place these important documents in an accessible, fire-safe, secure location.

Property deeds
Auto titles
Burial plot deeds
Birth certificate/adoption records
Birth certificate of spouse
Marriage certificate
Divorce decree
Death certificate of spouse
Military discharge.
Immigration and Naturalization Service Card (green card)
Estate dispersion documents (attorney should have copies)
Advance directives (primary care physician, hospital, and individual should have copies)
Property tax receipts
List of routine household bills
Copies of previous three years tax returns
Personal loan records
Retirement and pension policies, including the names of beneficiaries
Receivables
Insurance policies
Bank accounts, pass books
Certificates of deposit
Investment certificates
Business venture interests
Account or provision for funeral and health care

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