Business and Law

In today’s time and age, if put into the wrong hands, your personal records can be used for all kinds of purposes. Identity theft has become a big issue nowadays, and it is in your best interest that you keep yours in a safe and secure place.

Some of the most valued “records” that you have are probably personal letters, photographs, and such mementos as newspaper clippings, diplomas, and graduation programs. Do not feel guilty about saving these, but do not be overly sentimental either – throw out the scraps that will mean little as time passes.

Here are three tips to share with you on how to manage your personal records:

1) To protect these mementos from fire or flood and to keep them all in one place as well, store them in a metal strongbox or a small footlocker.

2) Make sure you have copies of all birth, marriage, divorce, and death certificates. These records are filed permanently either in a state vital statistics office or in a city, county, or other local office.

3) To get copies of a birth certificate, write to the appropriate office of the capital of the state where the birth took place. The office may be listed in the phone book under “Vital Statistics” or “Health Department”. It may even be listed under “Birth Certificates” in a quick reference list of state of local government offices.

Besides your own personal records in a box that can withstand fire and water, you should consider having a permanent file as well. This file should contain the deed to your home, your mortgage agreement, and other papers from the closing – such as surveys and title guarantees.