The Family Emergency Plan
Planning isn't pessimistic. It's the most loving thing you can do for your family.
Step 1: Discuss "What If" Scenarios
Sit down with your spouse, parents, or children. Talk about:
- Who picks up the kids if both parents are incapacitated?
- Where do we meet if there is a fire or earthquake?
- Who is our "out-of-town" contact if local lines are down?
Step 2: Organize Financial Access
Many assets remain unclaimed because families didn't know they existed. Ensure your partner knows:
- Which banks you have accounts in.
- Location of life insurance policy documents.
- Contact details of your financial advisor or CA.
Tip: Use the Financial References Vault to list these (without passwords).
Step 3: Medical preparedness
In a medical crisis, minutes matter.
- Keep a list of allergies and current medications on your person.
- Ensure your family knows your blood group.
- Have a conversation about organ donation wishes.
Step 4: Create a Digital Will (Inventory)
Catalog your digital assets. Email accounts, social media, cryptocurrency, domain names, etc. Decide who should have access or authority to close them.
Step 5: Review Annually
Set a recurring calendar event (e.g., on your birthday or New Year) to review and update all this information.