I was recently reminded of the importance of photocopying the contents of my wallet.
I was waiting my turn at my state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) when a stressed woman walked in. She told the reception desk attendant that she lost her license while skiing the previous day. She needed a new license right away so she could board her flight to Florida the following day. The conversation went something like this:
DMV Receptionist: Do you have a copy of your license?
DMV Customer: No.
Receptionist: We can’t replace your license without your license number.
Customer: Can’t you look it up?
Receptionist: Not without proof of who you are. Do you have a passport?
Customer: No. Can’t I just get my license replaced so I can get on the plane to Florida?!
Receptionist: It takes about a week to get a replacement photo ID. And you need to bring in other documents. Here’s a list.
With that, the unhappy customer quickly left, presumably to gather her documents and return. Although I’ll never know whether she was able to board her plane, this scene was a good reminder to make an up-to-date copy of the contents of my wallet. After I got home, I did so.
Have You Copied Your Wallet’s Contents?
I recommend that you do the same. Once you do, keep the copy in a safe place, away from eyes that don’t need to see your personal information. If you make paper photocopies, a locked firebox or file cabinet would be good options. If you make digital copies, keep them secure. Remember, if your device gets stolen or hacked, you don’t want the thief to have access to this information. At the same time, you want these copies in a place where you can quickly access them.
Should your wallet get lost or stolen, follow the guidance in my blog post When Your Wallet Goes Missing.
This blog is published to provide you with general information only and is not intended to provide specific or comprehensive advice. Money Care, LLC encourages individuals to seek advice from competent professionals when appropriate.
