The third week of April is Organize Your Files Week. Oh boy, I just saw everyone’s eyes glaze over. I know, filing is not anyone’s favorite task but it is a necessity for a well-run office AND home.
When is the last time you purged your files (personal AND business)? The theory is that we never look at 80% of the paper that we file ever again! Chances are that you can slim your filing cabinets significantly by systematically throwing out old papers that are no longer needed. I like to go through my filing cabinet two times a year, usually around the time when the time changes. Old bills that are no longer needed, paperwork associated with items I no longer own – all are consigned to the shred pile.
Need some guidance on what to keep and what can go? Here are a few resources that I like to reference. Of course if you have any specific questions on what to keep, please be sure to consult your tax professional or attorney. These are just suggestions! Now get to purging those files!
Books
Taming the Paper Tiger at Home by Barbara Hemphill
Organizing Paper @ Home by Barbara Hemphill and Jennifer Wig
Taming the Office Tiger by Barbara Hemphill
Links to Lists on How Long to Keep What
How Long Should I Keep My Records by IRS
Record Retention for Your Home by Stephanie Calahan of Calahan Solutions -
How Long to Keep Financial Records by Bankrate.com
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Andi Willis is a Professional Organizer and the owner of Good Life Organizing based in Perry, GA. She is passionate about helping people find creative solutions to organizing their homes and simplifying their lives. From piles of old photos to files of digital pictures, bedrooms to playrooms, home offices to kitchens, no project is too large or too small to tackle. Working with clients from busy moms to busy executives, Andi can help you get past the clutter and get on with your life! Andi is a proud member of National Association of Professional Organizers, Institute for Chronic Disorganization, Association of Personal Photo Organizers and the Perry Area Chamber of Commerce.
Find Andi at Good Life Organizing, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. You can also contact her by email or (478) 550-1969.
