Piles of paper are often the toughest type of clutter. Paper accumulates so quickly from every area in our lives. Here are some handy tips about how to keep your paperwork from getting out of control.
Files: Staple papers together instead of using paper clips because paper clips often get caught on other papers. Keep your filing system updated regularly.
Magazines: Never keep entire magazines in a file. Look for any important articles, cut them out, staple the pieces together and file them.
Important Documents: Store your valuable papers in a safe deposit box or a fireproof safe.
Business Cards: Try to categorize your business cards by industry or profession if it makes sense for your specific needs. Writing the date down on the back of each business card will help you decide about when it’s time to toss it.
Bills and Mail: File your bills immediately after you pay them so you don’t have to deal with them again and they don’t get misplaced. Check each bill and write the total and the date you plan to schedule payment right on the bill’s original envelope. Put the bill in a holding area where you can see the date. Schedule a regular time and have a specific place to actively read through your mail and pay your bills. Pay bills at the beginning of each week for bills that are due that week. This way you’ll never have too many bills to pay at any one time and the process should be relatively quick. Toss those extra advertising inserts that come with your bills.
Check registers: Always date your check registers with the range of dates it includes and the range of check numbers it includes. Example: April 10, 2007 to September 12, 2008, check numbers 1312 to 1418. Change registers at the end of each year even if there’s room left in the register. It’s just easier to keep records by year than to mix years. For documentation write in who the check is to and what the check is for.
Bank Statements and Cancelled Checks: Reconcile your statement every time you get one. Make sure all ATM and service fees are shown on each statement.
If you insist on keeping canceled checks, keep them in a separate box in numerical order rather than with the bank statements. They’ll be easier to find if you ever need them.
I’ll have more tips for you in part two next month.
Bob Farkas is The Clutter Wizard, a “hands-on” home and office professional organizer serving The Santa Clarita Valley. His website has many great hints and tips for staying organized, so please visit www.theclutterwizard.com . Bob can be reached via email at theclutterwizard@gmail.com or by phone at 661-298-9100.