Emergencies don’t wait. Fires, floods, hurricanes, theft, or even losing your wallet can leave you without the proof and paperwork you need to rebuild your life or help your family. Replacing lost documents can be frustrating and slow — especially when one missing paper prevents you from replacing another.

That’s why everyone should have an “Oh No” Box — a fireproof pouch or portable safe that holds all your essential documents in one secure, easy-to-grab place. You can find one for around $30 at most major retailers.

What to Keep in Your Box

Identification Documents

• Driver’s License (and a backup state ID if your state allows both)

• Birth Certificates for you and anyone who relies on you

• Social Security Cards for all dependents

• Passports (current and expired)

Vital Records

• Certified copies of Marriage Licenses and Divorce Decrees

• DD-214 (for veterans)

• Legal name change records or court orders

Financial Essentials

• A checkbook

• One emergency-use credit card

• Deeds or mortgage paperwork for your home

• Vehicle titles, registrations, and insurance documents

• Copies of recent bank statements

• Current utility bills and account information

• Trust or estate documents

Insurance and Health Records

• Life insurance policies for yourself and anyone you’re responsible for

• Health insurance cards (and copies of Medicare or Medicaid cards)

• Benefit award letters from SSA, VA, or Medicaid

Legal and Professional Documents

• Power of Attorney and Living Will

• Professional licenses or certifications

• Wills or estate plans

Digital Access and Passwords

Today, nearly every part of life connects online — banking, insurance, healthcare, even utilities. In an emergency, your loved ones need a way to access these accounts.

Include one of the following in your safe:

• A printed list of important usernames and passwords stored in a sealed envelope

• Or, safer yet, clear instructions for how to access your password manager or digital vault (for example: Dashlane, LastPass, or Google Password Manager)

Make sure one trusted person knows how to access this information if you’re unable to.

Don’t Forget Your Beneficiaries

Make sure every bank account, investment, and retirement plan lists a Payable on Death (POD) or Transfer on Death (TOD) beneficiary. This simple step saves your loved ones time, stress, and potential legal battles.

Why It Matters

Creating an “Oh No” Box doesn’t take long — but it can save your family days, weeks, or even months of confusion and heartache.

It’s about more than papers. It’s about protecting:

• Your identity

• Your assets

• Your loved ones’ peace of mind

Take 30 minutes this week to prepare yours. You’ll never regret being ready.

Simply for Your Benefit.

#simplyforyourbenefit