As I pull out the documents in my file, I am finding more projects I need to do. (This series is not just for you. :-))

Though I have our important documents organized, some of these records are outdated, or I have old copies stashed within the bundles. The initial setup took the longest as I had to gather all the documents, but the paperwork continues to change and requires maintenance.

In taking it one step at a time, progress happens. Last week, we concentrated on the paperwork for our adult account investments at financial institutions. This week, I turn to the documents kept for our children’s accounts.

Part 2: Documents for Children’s Accounts

With each of our three children having a savings account at two different financial institutions, I keep the following documents in each bundle:

• Membership Identification Card. The original card and a copy of the card displaying the membership number begins each bundle.

• Contact information. For quick reference, the following information is included on the copy of the membership card document:
  • Protective Password
  • Website
  • Username
  • Password
  • Member number
  • PIN

• Account Application. As my children are minors, I keep the documentation I used to open their accounts. This information includes the account number should I misplace the copy or the original membership card.

• Correspondence. Any additional information, including joint members and beneficiary designations, is filed after the account application.

For each account, I paperclip these items together. I then place the bundles in the following order:

• Financial Institution #1: Paul’s account
• Financial Institution #1: Tracy’s account
• Financial Institution #1: Child 1’s account
• Financial Institution #1: Child 2’s account
• Financial Institution #1: Child 3’s account
• Financial Institution #2: Paul’s account
• Financial Institution #2: Tracy’s account
• Financial Institution #2: Child 1’s account
• Financial Institution #2: Child 2’s account
• Financial Institution #2: Child 3’s account

When I need to access the information, I can choose which financial institution I need, and then locate the account by the owner. Keeping our documents in this same order throughout the filing system frees me to get the document rather than sifting through loose paper.

Getting these documents organized is not easy. It takes time and effort as each little bundle requires verification, on-line setup for some accounts, and recording the information. Take it slowly to get the information correct. Keep making progress while using time wisely. Happy organizing!

Question: How is your document organization coming along?