Documents to Gather For a Great Foundation
Getting started with legacy planning can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot to think about, and it’s not always clear what to tackle first. That’s why Paige is built to guide you step by step—helping you focus on what matters now, and what can come next.
Organizing your important documents is a meaningful part of the process. We’ve listed what we consider to be the essential documents to get started with, so you can give your loved ones clarity, saving them time, and reducing stress during moments when they’ll need it most.
You don’t need to gather everything at once. Think of this as building a strong foundation, one document at a time. When applicable, note where signed or original copies are stored, since digital versions are helpful for reference but don’t always meet legal requirements.
Last Will and Testament and/or Trust Documents
These outline how your assets should be handled and who is responsible for carrying out your wishes. They help prevent confusion, delays, and family disagreements.
A paper copy recommended. Originals are usually required for legal and court processes. Be sure to note where your paper copy is kept so your loved ones can find it.
Letter of Instruction
This isn’t a legal document, but it’s incredibly helpful. It provides context your will doesn’t cover. We suggest uploading a document that includes info like where important items or papers are kept, who to contact in case of an emergency or your passing, and can also include personal notes for your loved ones. Your letter of instruction will vary depending on your lifestyle and needs. Add anything you think your family will find helpful or comforting.
Funeral and Burial Wishes
Sharing your preferences in advance lifts a major emotional burden from your family. This document helps ensure your wishes are known and respected. Paige provides a PDF outline that will guide you through writing down this info. Simply fill it out, and upload it to your Documents tool.
Personal Information
Basic details your loved ones will be asked for immediately—by hospitals, employers, and financial institutions. Having this in one place saves time and repeated stress. We’ve included a helpful PDF with the info your loved ones may need.
Life Insurance Policy
This tells your loved ones what coverage exists, who the beneficiaries are, and how to file a claim. It can provide critical financial support during a difficult period.
Paper copy recommended? Helpful, but a digital copy that includes the policy number, coverage amount and name of the insurance company is usually sufficient for reference.
Durable Financial Power of Attorney
Allows someone you trust to manage finances if you’re unable to. This is especially important in ongoing medical situations where bills still need to be paid.
Paper copy recommended? Yes. Financial institutions often require a signed original.
Health Insurance Documentation
Helps caregivers and medical providers understand coverage, billing, and eligibility, especially in urgent or unfamiliar settings.
Paper copy recommended? It’s helpful to keep a physical card or printout accessible but having an image of your card will provide the needed info for most medical offices.
Medical Information and Health Summary
A snapshot of medications, conditions, allergies, and doctors. This can be invaluable in emergencies or when care is transferred. You’ll find a PDF outlining basic info you may want to provide in your Paige documents tool.
Medical Power of Attorney or Health Care Proxy
Names the person who can make medical decisions on your behalf if you can’t speak for yourself. This helps avoid uncertainty during critical moments.
Paper copy recommended? Yes. Many hospitals ask for a signed copy
Living Will or Advance Directives
Documents your wishes around end-of-life care and medical interventions. This gives guidance when decisions are especially hard.
Paper copy recommended? Yes. You’ll want to let someone know where a signed copy is kept.
Birth Certificate
Often required to verify identity, claim benefits, or handle legal matters.
Paper copy recommended: Yes. Originals are frequently required.
Marriage Certificate or Divorce Decree (if applicable)
These establish legal relationships and are often needed for benefits, name changes, or estate matters.
Paper copy recommended? Yes. Let someone know where these are stored if you have them.
Passport or Driver’s License
Proof of identity that may be needed for financial or legal verification.
Paper copy recommended? Keep originals secure; uploading a copy helps with reference and may help in digital transactions.
List of Accounts
A centralized list of banks, credit cards, investments, utilities, and subscriptions so nothing is overlooked or lost. Paige has provided a PDF you can use to list these accounts so your loved ones know where to look, and what may need to be settled or cancelled. Use this list in conjunction with your Paige Passwords tool for ease and security.
Deed or Lease to Primary Residence
Clarifies ownership, responsibilities, and next steps for housing—whether that’s selling, transferring, or managing a lease.
Paper copy recommended? Yes. This will be needed in any transactions.
Retirement Accounts (401(k), IRA, Pension, etc.)
These accounts often pass outside of a will. Listing them ensures beneficiaries can locate and claim them properly.
Paper copy recommended? No. Digital statements are usually sufficient.
Most Recent Tax Return
Provides a snapshot of financial life and helps executors, accountants, or surviving spouses understand income and tax obligations.
Paper copy recommended? Helpful, but a digital copy works well.
A Strong Foundation, Built Thoughtfully
Once these essential documents are in place, you’ve done something meaningful. You’ve reduced future stress, and given your loved ones a roadmap when they’ll need it most.
When you’ve completed these steps, you can continue to explore Paige’s helpful document prompts, organized by category in your Documents tool to round out your plan and provide even more clarity for your delegates. The more you add, the easier things will be to settle down the road.
