There are certain things nobody warns you about adulthood. Like how often you’ll discuss interest rates, how exciting a new appliance can become, or how many important documents you’re somehow expected to keep track of.

Fortunately, getting your life admin in order doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with these five essentials.

1. Your ID And Other Personal Documents

Your South African ID is one of those documents you don’t think much about until you urgently need it.

Keep your ID and copies of other important documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, somewhere safe and accessible. It’s also worth keeping secure digital copies so that losing a handbag doesn’t send your life into admin chaos.

2. An Up-To-Date Will

A Will sets out what you’d like to happen to your assets after you pass away and lets you nominate an executor to manage your estate. Without one, winding up your estate can become more complicated for the people you leave behind.

The good news? Creating one is an adulting task you can actually tick off without too much fuss. MiWayLife can help you create a Will and store it safely, so your wishes are documented and your loved ones know there’s a plan in place.

Just remember to revisit your Will after major life changes, such as getting married, divorced, having children or buying property.

3. Your Insurance Policy Documents

You might know you have life or funeral cover, but would your family know? And would they know where to find the policy details or how to claim?

Keep your policy documents somewhere secure and make sure a trusted person knows where they are. Also check that your beneficiary details and contact information are up to date.

4. Your Tax Records

“SARS” may not be everyone’s favourite four-letter word, but keeping good tax records can make life much easier.

Create a dedicated folder for relevant tax documents, such as IRP5s, certificates, invoices, receipts and records relating to any deductions you’d like to make.

Digital folders are a great idea because you can organise everything by tax year instead of embarking on an annual archaeological dig through your inbox.

5. Your Emergency Information

Last, but not least, create a simple emergency information document that tells a trusted person what they need to know and where important information can be found.

Include emergency contacts, medical aid details and the location of your Will and insurance policies. You can also note who should be contacted about your home, work, pets or other responsibilities.

The Bottom Line

Getting your paperwork sorted might not be the most glamorous part of adulting, but future you, and the people you love, will be very glad you did.

And while you’re ticking off the important stuff, consider putting financial protection in place too. With MiWayLife life cover, a valid claim pays your chosen cover amount to your nominated beneficiaries. All of our life cover policies also includes an accelerated funeral benefit that pays out fast. That’s two pretty important to-dos taken care of with one policy.

Why not get a quick quote from MiWayLife today?

Did You Know:

You can now take out life cover with us online in a few simple steps. No calls and no agents! Make sure to take care of those you love today by buying MiWayLife cover online.