This is a guide from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Here's a list of what should never be shredded and should ideally be stored in a safe deposit box at the bank or in a locked box:
- Divorce decrees
- Original marriage and birth certificates
- Adoption and citizenship papers
- Social security cards
- Active passports
- Death certificates of family members
- Military records
- College diplomas
- Power of attorney documents
- Wills and trusts
- Active life insurance policies
If in doubt of what you should shred and when, reach out to the Internal Revenue Service, your tax accountant, banker, or financial adviser who will likely be able to advise you about your particular situation.
