Gather Important Documents & Legal Readiness

Having all your essential documents organized and easily accessible is a critical step in preparing for unexpected situations. This not only ensures your family’s safety and continuity of care but also speeds up legal processes and helps trusted contacts act on your behalf. Create a dedicated file for your documents, include English translations, and share copies with your emergency contact or trusted caregiver.

    1. Parental Authorization/Appointment of Guardian.

    2. Authorization for Release of Educational Records and Appointment of Guardian.

    3. Power of Attorney for Healthcare or other relevant authorizations.

    1. Photo IDs for all family members (driver’s license, consular ID, passports, state/municipal ID).

    2. Birth Certificates or Registry of Birth for each family member.

    3. Passports for both parents and children, including expired ones.

    4. Social Security Cards or ITIN numbers for all family members.

    1. Alien Registration Number (A-Number).

    2. Work permits (current and or expired).

    3. Visas, green cards, I-94, etc.

    4. Any documentation provided to or received from USCIS, CBP, or immigration courts.

    1. Any criminal records, court documents, and final dispositions.

    2. Restraining orders (for you or your children, if applicable).

    3. Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) records, if applicable.

    1. Bank account statements, loan agreements, and bills (to ensure continuity in payments).

    2. Rental agreements, lease contracts, or contact information for your landlord.

    3. Deeds, mortgage documents, and titles for any properties or vehicles.

    4. Insurance policies (health, life, car, and home/renters).

    5. Tax returns from the last 3-5 years.

    1. Medical history for each family member, including current prescriptions and treatments.

    2. Contact information for doctors and specialists.

    3. Immunization records for children.

    4. Emergency contact information and any special accommodations required at school.

  • If you are selling a U.S. property and are a foreign seller, FIRPTA may apply. To help ensure a smooth transaction, it's important to collect the following documents:

    • Mortgage Statement – Verifies the current outstanding loan balance.

    • Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

    • Copy of Seller’s Passport – Required for identity verification.

    • Recent Property Tax Statements – Shows current tax obligations.

    • Property Deed – If available, this helps verify ownership.

    • Homeowners Insurance Records – Provides details about current coverage.

    • Preliminary Title Report – Lists ownership details and any existing liens or encumbrances.

    • HOA Documents – If applicable, includes information about rules, fees, and community guidelines.

    • Maintenance Records – Offers insight into the home’s upkeep and repair history.

    • Renovation Plans & Permits – Helpful for buyers to understand past improvements or additions.

    • Appliance Manuals & Warranties – Not required, but useful for explaining how to operate and maintain systems like water heaters, softeners, or other in-home features.

    Recommended FIRPTA Attorney:
    Parr Brown Gee & Loveless
    Phone: 801-532-7840
    Address: 101 S. 200 E, Suite 700, Salt Lake City, UT