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Blog: Easy Organizing For Active Kids And Busy Parents
 Quick and Easy Tips for a Month Devoted to Organizing: #2 Your Family Files
Files and piles and papers, oh my!! It doesn't take much for household paper and documents to get out of control. But while this type of organizing is usually the LEAST preferred project for most people, it can often be the MOST critical. Misplaced bills, mortgage papers, loan documents, and tax receipts not only cause clutter and disorganization, they can cost you big bucks in late fees and poor credit ratings. In honor of GO Month (Get Organized Month) put aside a few hours this weekend and use these quick and easy ideas for getting your home files in tip-top shape.
· Re-evaluate what you file. According to the experts, 80% of what we file is never looked at again. Take some time to skim through your files and make sure that all the papers occupying your filing cabinets are worthy of the space they are taking up. For advice on document retention schedules relating to financial matters, visit the IRS website, or ask your family accountant or lawyer.
· Active, Inactive, or Vital? Different families have different categories and types of files, but in general, the files will fall into one of three categories: Active, Inactive, or Vital. Start with these three basic categories and then sub-divide from there. For instance, Active Files are those that you frequently access (e.g., monthly credit card and bank statements). Keep all of these files together and the most accessible (in the top drawer or at the front a lateral file). Next, store your Inactive files, those that you need to keep but you don't need frequently (product warranty information, insurance policies, investment documents, graduate school transcripts). Finally, file COPIES of your vital documents (birth and marriage certificates, property deeds, wills). Keep originals of these very important papers in either a fire-safe box or safety deposit box.
· Neatness counts. Never underestimate the value of the label maker! I prefer to use file folders in only one color, with consistently labeled titles. If you'd like to categorize your files with hanging files in three different colors for the Active, Inactive, or Vital, that's great, just make sure the system you create is not too intricate, or chances are it will not be easy to maintain.
· Create a file index. Once your file system is complete, create an index and keep this index at the front of your cabinet. The benefit of the index is twofold: 1.) If for any reason someone else needs to access your files, it will be easy for them to understand your system and find what they need, and 2.) If later you forget which file you designated for your medical receipts, you can easily remind yourself and safeguard the integrity of your system.
If you have any questions setting up YOUR files, don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Now GO, GO, GO get your files and piles organized!!
Coming Next Week:
There are still two more Fridays in GO Month . . . PLENTY of time for more quick and easy organizing projects! Next week we will tackle your home's mudroom/entry. Until then, happy organizing!
Simply yours,
Debbie
posted on: 1/11/2008 9:00:00 AM by Debbie Jordan Kravitz
category: Family
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Easy Organizing For Active Kids And Busy Parents
by Debbie Jordan Kravitz
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About Debbie:
Debbie Jordan Kravitz is a Professional Organizer, Author, and Owner of Virtually Organized by Debbie LLC. She is also a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) and the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD). Debbie's goal is to help her clients customize, organize and simplify their lives so they can spend less time searching for their things and more time doing the things they love.
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Visit my blog, "Virtually Organized," and be sure to leave me a comment to let me know you found me through www.OnlineOrganizing.com. "Virtually Organized" includes even MORE tips, ideas, and inspiration, as well as "Steals & Deals" (links to cool products at GREAT discounts, or even FREE!"
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