As work piles up, you may find yourself surrounded by endless stacks of paperwork. Important documents can be lost in the mess, and work becomes increasingly less efficient. This guide to organization will allow you to control the incoming paperwork and rid yourself of any unnecessary documents.

Actions to Take:

Shred it
Everything that includes your personal information, even if it’s only your name and address.

• Examples include: expired documentation, such as credit/debit cards, product/service warranties, and driver’s licenses.

Scan it
Documents you need to retain, but don’t need in physical form (after scanning, always shred).

• Examples include: current health benefits and an annual bank statement.

Reduce it
Reduce waste and paperwork by requesting a paperless option.

• Examples include: monthly bank statements and junk mail.

Store it
Store physical copies of important documents with vital information (scan backup copies, just in case).

• Examples include: state-issued vital certificates, current licenses, deeds to property (as owner), active product/service warranties, pet documents, and pay stubs from the current year.

Document lifespan 
Are you unsure about how long to keep the never-ending amount of documents in your care? Download a document lifespan cheat sheet that will allow you to file, shred, or trash these items in a timely manner. Included in this cheat sheet are bank statements, contracts, and identification papers. Use this sheet and you will find yourself working in a clutter-free environment!