After you signed your estate planning documents, the next logical question is where should I keep my documents? The answer really depends on your individual circumstances. The Register of Wills office in the county where you reside can store your Last Will and Testament in their safe for safekeeping purposes. If you think someone will destroy your will or tamper with your will, then it is best kept locked in the safe at the Register of Wills office.
The Register of Wills will not store Revocable Living Trusts in their safe. You have two options. First, you can keep the documents in your safe deposit box at the bank. It is the most secure location from theft and fire or water damage. I recommend that you add your successor trustee as an owner of the safe deposit box for ease of access upon your death or incapacity. The second option is to store your document at home in your personal safe. The safe should be fire and water resistant. You still need to give your successor trustee instructions how to access your safe. Is there a key? Is there a combination? Is there both a key and a combination? They still need to be able to access the documents efficiently when the time comes.
You have several different options available to you. Working with your attorney, you can discuss the best location for your documents and how to inform your executor or trustee as to the location you decided.
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