Where Should You Keep Your Estate Planning Documents?
- Nancy Escobedo
- Dec 8
- 2 min read
You finally did it—you finished your estate plan! You signed the trust, will, power of attorney, and health care directives. You even popped some champagne afterward (as you should!).
But here’s the question almost everyone forgets to ask:
Where should I keep these documents so my family can actually find them?
Let’s make sure your estate plan is not only complete but also accessible when your loved ones need it most.
Step 1: Create an Estate Planning Binder
Ask your lawyer for a printed set of your estate planning documents, organized in a sturdy binder or folder. Keep it in a safe but accessible place—not in a bank safe deposit box that only you can open.
A home safe, fireproof box, or clearly labeled drawer is usually best.
At Gasper Law, we prepare a customized binder for each of our clients, containing all their original signed documents for easy access.
The goal is simple: make sure your loved ones know exactly where to go in an emergency. If you’ve named someone as your trustee, executor, or agent, tell them where the binder is kept and how to access it.
Step 2: Make a Digital Backup
Once your documents are signed, scan them or ask your attorney for a secure digital copy. Store these in a password-protected folder or encrypted cloud storage.
Then, share access with one or two trusted people—not the whole family, but at least someone who can step in if needed.
Digital copies protect you in case of fire, flood, or travel emergencies, and they make updating your documents easier down the road.
Pro Tip: Keep a short note in your binder listing where your digital files are stored and who has access.
Step 3: Communicate the Essentials
The most important step isn’t just where your papers are—it’s who knows about them.
Make sure your loved ones know:
That you have a complete estate plan
Which lawyer you worked with
How to reach your attorney if something happens
In a crisis, clear communication saves time, money, and stress. Your estate plan only works if the right people can find and use it when it matters most.
Next Steps: Get Peace of Mind About Your Estate Plan
Ready to check “estate planning” off your to-do list?
Book a Peace of Mind Planning Session—a one-hour meeting with me, available in person or via Zoom. We’ll answer your questions, review your options, and explain our flat fees.
If we decide we’re a good fit, we’ll outline your next steps together.
Mention this blog and we’ll waive the $450 session fee.
Comments