Safe deposit boxes have long been a popular choice for storing valuable and sensitive items, from family heirlooms to important documents. However, not everything belongs in a secure bank vault. In this article, we will explore items you might regret keeping in a safe deposit box and why they are better off elsewhere.
- Original Wills and Powers of Attorney
While it may seem like a logical choice to store your will and power of attorney documents in a safe deposit box, it can create complications for your loved ones. Safe deposit boxes can be sealed upon your death, requiring a court order and additional time and expense for your heirs to access these crucial documents when needed. Instead, keep copies at home in a secure location, and inform a trusted family member or attorney of their whereabouts.
- Passport and Birth Certificate
Keeping your passport and birth certificate in a safe deposit box can cause issues when you need to access them for travel or identification purposes. These documents are best stored at home in a secure but accessible location. If you travel frequently, consider a fireproof and waterproof document bag for added protection.
- Medication and Medical Directives
Prescription medication, medical directives, and emergency medical information should not be kept in a safe deposit box. In the event of a health emergency, you or your family members might need immediate access to these documents and medications. Instead, have a designated medical information folder at home, easily accessible in case of an emergency.
- Everyday Jewelry and Valuables
While it’s wise to store valuable jewelry and collectibles in a secure location, a safe deposit box isn’t the most practical choice. Accessing your jewelry for special occasions or selling it can become inconvenient. Consider a home safe or a specialized jewelry box with built-in security features to keep these items secure and accessible.
- Copies of Important Documents
Safe deposit boxes are ideal for storing original documents, but keeping copies of essential records in the box is redundant. Instead, retain copies at home and store digital backups in a secure, password-protected cloud storage account. This way, you can access them from anywhere.
- Sentimental Items with Regular Use
Sentimental items, like family photo albums, heirlooms, and memorabilia, are best enjoyed and displayed in your home. Placing them in a safe deposit box can deprive you of the joy and connection they bring. Keep these items where you can appreciate them regularly, and store copies of irreplaceable photos or documents digitally.
- Insurance Policies
While it might seem fitting to store your insurance policies in a safe deposit box, it’s unnecessary. Insurance companies can provide duplicate copies of your policies if they are lost or destroyed. Instead, keep a copy in your financial records at home.
- Cash Savings
Storing cash in a safe deposit box is generally discouraged due to the lack of insurance coverage. Bank deposit accounts offer FDIC insurance, which protects your money in case of bank failure. It’s wiser to keep your cash in a bank account, where it can also earn interest.
- Digital Storage Devices
With the advancement of technology, digital storage devices like external hard drives or USB drives should be kept at home or in a secure location, not in a safe deposit box. They are prone to damage from humidity and extreme temperatures. Instead, consider cloud-based storage or digital backup services for your important digital files.
- Valuable Jewelry You Rarely Wear
Valuable jewelry that you seldom wear is better off stored at home in a secure location, like a home safe or a hidden compartment. While safe deposit boxes are secure, accessing them can be less convenient and limit your ability to enjoy your valuable pieces.
Safe deposit boxes are undoubtedly a secure option for certain documents and items. However, for many valuables and essential records, they are more of a hassle than a help. Evaluating the suitability of a safe deposit box for specific items is essential to ensure easy access when needed. By keeping the right things in your safe deposit box and the right things at home, you can strike a balance between security and practicality.