Important Documents for Caregivers
List of suggested forms, papers, and documents you should have on hand for the one you are caring for. Please note that this list may be incomplete. Check with a lawyer to ensure you have all documents necessary..
☐ Will
☐ Trust (if applicable)
☐ Medical/Healthcare Power of Attorney (or HIPPA authorization form)
☐ Financial (Durable) Power of Attorney (“Durable” means the document takes effect immediately upon signing and is not contingent upon certain conditions)
☐ Advance Directives/DNR form (do not resuscitate)
☐ Beneficiary Designations for life insurance, retirement accounts
☐ Property Deeds or Titles for homes or vehicles/Papers for other assets or investments
☐ Passport/Citizenship papers if applicable
☐ Driver’s license
☐ Social Security card
☐ Birth certificate
☐ Health Insurance cards/Medicare or Medicaid documents and cards
☐ All medical information—list of drugs, current doctors, etc.
☐ Death certificate of spouse if applicable
☐ Banking—tax returns, bank statements, other financial statements/investments, saving bonds, credit card statements, outstanding bills
☐ Veterans benefits/Military records if applicable
☐ Pension benefits if applicable
☐ Divorce papers if applicable
☐ Pre-paid funeral expenses papers if applicable