15 Steps To Paper Management

The hint to good Paper Management is Organization. Keeping track of paper, information, documents and keeping your files up to date is an enormous project. You don't have to have expensive items to store them in; start off simple and you can add to your organizing techniques as you want to.

Try some of these ideas to do things the easy way.

1. Alphabetize items whether you are using the letter or name system.
2. Date materials -when the item was purchased-where-attach receipt.
3. Put on the front of the files any passwords, I.D. numbers etc.Use different colors - one for the information packet one for statements.
4. Create a place for everything - filing cabinet, box, filing box etc.
5. Put everything in its place -file papers at the end of every week so they don't get lost.  
6. Sort items of importance - keep on track of things to do today, tomorrow etc. 
7. Use a file folder, manila envelope or drawer to keep papers in until filing. 
8. Create a filing system that YOU will understand. 
9. Use a folder or paper organizer to store folders on your desk.  
10. Use file tabs on your hanging folders to locate folders faster.  
11. Keep loose notes in a notebook - tape them in if necessary so nothing is lost.
12. File away last years records in storage - have one place for these papers.
13. Keep only the current year in your work area. 
14. Write on the outside of the file the month, date and amount of payment
15. Some people like to have hanging file folders that are different colors to keep track of sub-category's. Hint : Insurance-blue sub-category: House -yellow-vehicle-red life- green.

This will save you an enormous amount of time at tax time and you will be so organized. Next year, make new files, transfer the old ones to a box for storage and you have your new file system in place.

About Author :

Jan Hayner is a Professional Organizer and creator of www.organizingandcleaning.com, she offers tips, hints and shortcuts to everyday problems with organizing your home, work, family and life. She offers articles, checklists and monthly newsletter on Home Organizing and Household Cleaning Hints, tips and shortcuts. Tips for men, women, seniors and kids.