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Edited on Tue Oct-04-11 09:17 AM by MineralMan
If you don't already have them, you should get them right away. You're going to need them before long, and it takes time to get them:
1. Social Security Card - You need an actual one from the SSA. It's required to open bank accounts, get a bank loan, renew your drivers licence, and for other purposes. If yours is lost, replace it now. Just go to SSA.GOV for details. Takes a couple of weeks to get a replacement one. Patriot Act Requirement.
2. Birth Certificate - Get a fresh certified copy from the state or county where you were born. Search Google for Birth Certificate {state}. This could take a couple of weeks or longer, and there is a fee in most cases. Needed for all sorts of things, including renewing a drivers license and obtaining a passport. If you have an old one, it may not be accepted, since the rules have changed. I had my original one rejected because it had the certification impression on a separate piece of paper stapled to the certificate. No good any more.
3. Marriage Certificate - You need the one that's recorded in the county where you were married. The need for this is rare, but it can happen that you need to prove your marriage, especially if you have different last names. Again, takes a couple of weeks or longer and there's a fee.
4. DD Form 214 - If you're a veteran, you must have this on hand. Copies are fine. I have a bunch of them.
4. Copy of Homeowner's Insurance Declarations Page - If you're like me, you'll never find this when the bank wants it when you apply for a refi or something. Call your agent. He/she will get you a copy. Time needed is about a day. While you're doing this find copies of all other insurance policies, too.
5. Vehicle Titles - Where the heck are those things? When you sell your car, you'll need the title to transfer it. If you can't find them, get replacements from the DMV.
6. Deed or Trust Deed - Have a copy where you can get to it. If you can't find yours, you can get a copy from the county where your property is located. Takes a couple of days, and there will be a fee.
6. W-2s and 1099s - Three years worth at least. You can get replacements, but it takes a long time in many cases. Keep those things.
10. Tax Forms - 1040s and all accompanying forms. These are essential when applying for loans.
Assemble all this paper and put it in a fireproof box, stored in a place where you can access it at any time. Do NOT put this stuff in a safe deposit box in a bank. Ever. You may not be able to get it when you need it.
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