ReclaimMyID

A wallet is one of the most overlooked and under regarded items that people use daily. Your wallet holds keys to your most important financial and personal information, as well as money and possibly even actual keys. Are you one of those people with a wallet that is bursting at the seams? How many things that you carry around daily are you frequently using? We’re here to help you narrow down what you should and shouldn’t carry in your wallet.

What You Should Carry

Two Credit Cards – In the case of an emergency, a credit card can be a life saver. If you are someone who can resist temptation and are able to pay off the balance monthly, a credit card with great rewards is a great option for everyday use. Should you run into a technical issue with your main credit card, the second card can be used instead.
Identification – This is a no-brainer, but you should always carry identification. It is important that your ID cards have your current address. If you lose your wallet, this will allow the person who recovers it to return it to you (hopefully).
Debit Card – A debit card can be used in lieu of cash and will also allow you to withdraw cash from an ATM. However, we do recommend using your credit card instead of your debit card in most instances because of the added protections they offer.
Small Amount of Cash – You should always carry a small amount of cash. You may run into a business that only accepts cash or you may need cash in an emergency. It’s always smart to carry some cash in your wallet.
Insurance Cards – If you require medical assistance or get into an auto accident, you will need to provide your medical or auto insurance card. Always make sure to keep these with you.

What You Should NOT Carry

Social Security Card, Passport or Birth Certificate – These items contain your most personal information. This is the information needed to commit identity theft against you. Unless you need to bring these items with you as identification or for travel, leave them securely at home.
Spare Keys – In the case of a lost wallet, your biggest concerns should be canceling credit/debit cards, replacing your ID and the loss of a small amount of cash. If you carry a spare house or car key, you could give a criminal access to your home or car.
All of Your Credit Cards/Lots of Cash – You should only carry two credit cards and a small amount of cash (unless more is needed for a specific reason). If you own more than two credit cards, leave all but two at home. Should you lose your wallet you will only need to cancel these two cards. If you carry a lot of cash and you lose your wallet, you are likely never to see that money again (unless a true Samaritan finds it).

Your wallet is one of your most valuable possessions. Always know what you should and shouldn’t carry in your wallet and handle it with care.