By Tim Gamble
“Show me your papers.”
Whether in stable times, dystopian chaos, or post-disaster recovery, paperwork remains a frustrating but unavoidable reality. From proving your identity to accessing resources, having the right documents, and keeping them secure, can make or break your ability to navigate crises. The key questions are: Which documents do you need? And how do you protect them effectively?
Essential Documents to Secure
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Wills and powers of attorney
- Military discharge papers
- Copies of credit cards and bank account numbers
- Contact info and account numbers for insurance, investments, and utilities
- Tax, insurance, and other financial records
- Copies of driver's licenses, passports, and social security cards
- Vehicle titles and registration
- Medical and immunization records
- Insurance policies (health, property, auto, etc.)
- Pet records (registration, vaccinations)
- High school and college diplomas, plus transcripts
- Contact information for family, friends, and colleagues
- Home and property deeds
- Mortgage and lease agreements
This isn’t exhaustive—think through what else might be critical for your situation.
Step 1: Gather and Assess
Most of us already have paper copies of these documents scattered in desk drawers or file cabinets. Your first step is to collect them in one place. Review what you have, identify what’s missing, and start obtaining those absent documents. Contact relevant institutions (e.g., banks, government offices, or schools) to request copies of anything you lack.
Most of us already have paper copies of these documents scattered in desk drawers or file cabinets. Your first step is to collect them in one place. Review what you have, identify what’s missing, and start obtaining those absent documents. Contact relevant institutions (e.g., banks, government offices, or schools) to request copies of anything you lack.
Step 2: Secure Storage at Home
Once gathered, store your documents in a secure, accessible location in your home. A lockable, fireproof safe, file cabinet, or document bag is ideal (Amazon link). Why not a bank safe deposit box? Here’s why I avoid them:
- Limited Access: Banks aren’t open 24/7. Nights, weekends, holidays, or unexpected closures (due to weather, disasters, civil unrest, or financial crises) could leave you stranded without your documents.
- Bug-Out Risks: If you need to evacuate quickly, stopping by the bank to retrieve papers is unlikely. Time is critical in a crisis.
A home-based solution ensures you have immediate access when it matters most.
Step 3: Prepare Copies for Mobility
In a crisis, you may need to grab and go. Include copies of key documents in your bug-out bag or on your person. Here’s how:
- Digital Copies: Digitize essential documents, encrypt them for security, and store them on your phone or a USB drive. Use strong passwords and keep backups in multiple locations. You could also use cloud storage options, but personally I'm not that trusting of Big Tech.
- Physical Copies: Not all situations allow access to digital devices, so carry select paper copies. I use two 9x6 clasp envelopes in my bug-out bag, sealed in a waterproof plastic zip bag. Be selective—carrying every document is impractical. For example, when I refinanced my home, the paperwork was over 160 pages. Instead of hauling the full stack, I include a two-page summary with key details (account numbers, terms, contacts) in my envelope. Digital versions cover the rest.
Why This Matters
In chaotic times, documents prove your identity, ownership, and rights. Without them, you could face delays, denials, or worse—loss of critical resources. A rebel economist plans ahead, ensuring access to these assets no matter the circumstances. Take action now: gather, organize, and secure your documents. It’s not just paperwork—it’s your lifeline to stability in a world of chaos.
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