Remember to review your list of accounts and benefits periodically. Update your records if you acquire or terminate a plan or change the location where you file your plan statements.

Storing Your Information

Some of your retirement information is sensitive, so you'll want to file your list in a secure location, such a locked cabinet or fireproof safe at home. But it's important to tell those closest to you where the information is and how to get to it. Most important, if you've named an executor, or an agent under a durable power of attorney for finances, be certain they can find this information when they need it. For more information on getting your records organized and making them accessible to your loved ones after you die, see Get Organized Now and Keeping Track of Secured Places and Passwords.

To help you organize retirement accounts and other important information, you can turn to Nolo's Get It Together: Organize Your Records So Your Family Won't Have To, by Melanie Cullen and Shae Irving, J.D. This workbook with CD-ROM provides a complete system for documenting information for your executor, caretakers, and other loved ones.