Emotional and Practical Survival
What if I don't know where anything is?
Short answer
Start with email — search "insurance," "policy," "account," "statement," "login." Check their phone for apps. Look for a filing cabinet, safe, or safe deposit box. Check with their accountant or attorney — they may have copies of key documents. Many people find…
What this usually means
Start with email — search "insurance," "policy," "account," "statement," "login." Check their phone for apps. Look for a filing cabinet, safe, or safe deposit box. Check with their accountant or attorney — they may have copies of key documents. Many people find that a slow, systematic search over several weeks reveals everything eventually.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.