Your DeathBox Guide
A step-by-step approach to creating, organizing, and maintaining your personal emergency document system.
Getting Started
Creating your DeathBox doesn't have to be overwhelming. We'll guide you through the process in manageable steps, allowing you to build a comprehensive system at your own pace.
First Steps Checklist
Choose Your Container
Select a durable, waterproof container that can protect your documents from environmental damage.
Gather Essential Documents
Start with the most critical documents like identification, medical information, and emergency contacts.
Create an Organization System
Develop a logical organization method using folders, tabs, or color-coding that makes sense to you and others who may need to use it.
Draft Your Emergency Instructions
Create a clear, simple instruction sheet that explains the contents and how to use them in various scenarios.
Core Components
Your DeathBox should contain several key categories of information, each serving a specific purpose in emergency or end-of-life scenarios.
Personal Documents
- • Birth certificates
- • Social security cards/numbers
- • Marriage certificates
- • Divorce decrees
- • Military service records
Financial Information
- • Bank account details
- • Investment account information
- • Retirement accounts
- • Insurance policies
- • Property deeds and titles
Legal Documents
- • Will and testament
- • Power of attorney
- • Healthcare directives
- • Living will
- • Trust documents
Emergency Information
- • Medical history and conditions
- • Current medications
- • Emergency contacts
- • Medical provider information
- • Allergies and blood type
Digital Considerations
In today's world, your digital legacy is increasingly important. Here's how to include digital assets and information in your DeathBox.
Digital Legacy Elements
Password Management
Strategies for securely storing and sharing passwords for important accounts.
Long-term Digital Storage
Using M-Discs and other archival-quality storage for important digital files.
Social Media and Online Accounts
Instructions for handling or closing your online presence.
Digital Asset Management
Documentation for cryptocurrency, NFTs, and other digital assets.
Maintenance and Updates
Your DeathBox is not a "set it and forget it" project. It requires regular updates to remain effective and accurate.
Recommended Update Schedule
- Quarterly:Review and update emergency contact information and medications list
- Biannually:Update financial information, account statements, and digital passwords
- Annually:Complete review of all documents, replace outdated materials, and check physical condition of the DeathBox
- After Major Life Events:Birth, death, marriage, divorce, major asset purchase or sale, moving, etc.