The Military Family Planning Checklist: 10 Things to Have in Order Before Something Happens

One of the most important conversations I have with veterans and their spouses is about preparedness. Not the kind of preparedness you trained for in the military. The kind that protects your family when you are not there to guide them.

Most families believe they are more prepared than they actually are. This checklist is designed to help you find out for certain.

1. Your DD-214 Is Stored Safely and Your Spouse Knows Where It Is

Your DD-214 is the key to accessing most of your veteran benefits. If your family cannot find it quickly, they may face delays in accessing burial benefits, survivor benefits, and other VA resources. Store the original somewhere secure and make sure your spouse knows exactly where that is.

2. Your Will Is Written, Signed, and Current

A will tells your family and the courts how you want your assets distributed. Without one, the state decides. If your will is more than a few years old, review it to make sure it still reflects your wishes. A free veteran will and burial kit is a good starting point if you do not have one yet.

3. Your Beneficiary Designations Are Up to Date

Beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other financial accounts override your will. If those forms list an ex-spouse, a deceased parent, or no one at all, your assets will not go where you intend. Review them now.

4. Your Spouse Knows What Life Insurance You Have

Does your spouse know which policies are in force, who the carriers are, and how to file a claim? If not, that information needs to be documented and shared.

5. Your VA Burial Benefit Status Is Understood

Know what burial benefits you have earned and what they cover. Understand that VA burial benefits do not cover all funeral and burial costs. Have a plan for the gap.

6. A Letter of Instruction Exists

A letter of instruction is not a legal document, but it may be the most useful thing you leave behind. It tells your family where to find accounts, documents, and contacts. It can also share your personal wishes in plain language.

7. Your Spouse Can Access Financial Accounts

In an emergency, your spouse needs to be able to access funds quickly. Make sure they have access to at least one joint account and know the login information for critical financial accounts.

8. Important Contacts Are Documented

Attorney, financial advisor, insurance agents, VA contacts. Your family should not have to guess who to call. Write it down.

9. Your Final Expense Plan Is in Place

Funeral costs, burial costs, transportation, headstones, and related expenses can run well beyond what most families expect. Whether you plan to use VA burial benefits, a supplemental insurance policy, or savings, make sure there is a clear plan.

10. You Have Had the Conversation

The most important item on this list is the simplest and the one most people avoid. Have the conversation with your spouse. Walk through what is in place, where things are, and what you want. Do not leave them to figure it out alone.

Start Here

If you are missing several items on this list, start with the free veteran will and burial kit available through Soldiers Legacy. From there, schedule a consultation and we will work through the rest together. Your family deserves to be prepared.

Protect What Matters Most

Get your complimentary Will & Burial Kit and schedule a consultation with a licensed professional.