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Build A Kit - Safe Deposit Box
Disaster Supply Kit | First Aid Kit | Additional Supplies | Storing Important Documents | Evacuation Box Contents | Safe Deposit Box
Consider Renting a Safe Deposit Box
Safe deposit boxes are invaluable for protecting originals of important documents. If you don't have a safe deposit box, keep copies in your evacuation box and originals at a separate location, such as with family or friends.
Home safes and fire boxes can be convenient places to store important papers. However, some disasters, such as hurricanes, floods or tornadoes, could destroy your home. It is usually better to store original papers in a safe deposit box or at another location that is not likely to be affected by the same disaster.
Keep the key to the safe deposit box in your evacuation box.
Original Documents to Store in a Safe Deposit Box
- Deeds, titles and other ownership records for your home, autos, RVs,
boats, etc.
- Birth certificates and naturalization papers
- Marriage license/divorce papers and child custody papers
- Passports and military/veteran papers
- Appraisals of expensive jewelry and heirlooms
- Certificates for stocks, bonds and other investments
- Trust agreements
- Living wills, powers of attorney and health care powers of attorney
- Insurance policies (copies are sufficient)
- Home improvement records
- Household inventory documentation
- Copies of wills. Originals of wills should not be kept in a safe deposit box since the box may be sealed temporarily after death. Keep originals of wills with your local registrar of wills or your attorney
Professional Advice May be Necessary
Depending on your situation, you may need the advice of a professional financial advisor. There is free financial counseling available when a disaster occurs, or you may want to hire your own professional advisor. When selecting a financial advisor, ask for recommendations from family or friends, or contact the Oregon Society of CPAs at 1-800-255-1470 or www.orcpa.org for professionals in your area.