Printable checklist
Documents to gather
The papers that matter most when caregiving, and that get hardest to assemble in a crisis. Print this, check items off as you find them, and keep it in the folder with the documents themselves.
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Legal & decision-making
These are the most important documents to have signed while your loved one is still mentally able to do so.
Advance Healthcare Directive (Living Will)Their wishes about life support, resuscitation, comfort care. State-specific form.
Healthcare Power of Attorney (Healthcare Proxy)Names who makes medical decisions if they cannot.
Durable Power of Attorney for FinancesNames who handles bills, banking, benefits if they cannot. "Durable" means it survives incapacitation.
HIPAA AuthorizationLets specific people receive medical information from providers.
WillWho inherits what. Without one, state law decides.
Trust documents (if any)Revocable or irrevocable trust paperwork.
Guardianship paperwork (if applicable)If court-appointed guardianship was established.
Identity
You will need these for nearly every benefits application.
Birth certificateCertified copy ideally.
Social Security card
Driver’s license or state ID
PassportEven if expired, it’s still proof of identity.
Marriage certificate / divorce decrees
Military discharge papers (DD-214)Critical for VA benefits eligibility.
Medical
Current medication listName, dose, prescribing doctor, what it’s for. Update whenever anything changes.
List of diagnoses
List of providersPrimary care + every specialist, with phone numbers.
Insurance cardsMedicare, Medicaid, supplemental, dental, vision, front and back.
Recent hospital discharge summaries
Allergy listMedications and other.
Financial
Bank account informationAll accounts, numbers, banks, online login.
Investment / retirement account information401k, IRA, brokerage.
Life insurance policiesTerm and whole life both.
Long-term care insurance policy (if any)
Most recent tax returns5 years if possible.
Pension statements
Social Security award letter
Mortgage / property deed
Vehicle titles
Practical
List of accounts & passwordsBank, email, important subscriptions, social media. A handwritten sheet in a sealed envelope works.
Funeral pre-arrangements (if any)
Religious or spiritual wishes
Emergency contact listFamily, neighbors, key doctors.
Pet care instructions (if applicable)
This checklist is general guidance, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Verify specifics with the relevant professionals.
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