Do you find paper clutter nearly impossible to deal with? Previously, I’ve sprinkled in tips on decluttering paper but since this seems to be a huge pain point for many, here is a step-by-step post dedicated to this topic. To start off, let me just say - when I first dealt with my paper clutter it was kind of an annoying process but the payoff was so worth it! Take a moment and imagine how awesome it'll feel to have it in order with a plan in place to stop it from piling up again. Are you up for the challenge to deal with paper clutter for good? If so, let’s go!
STEP 1:
Sort into categories:
Shred - This includes any documents you don't need that contain confidential information.
Recycle - Papers, catalogs, etc. that you don't need, don‘t contain confidential information and can be recycled properly.
Scan - Any documents that you need that can't be found online/digitally. Manuals, instructions, bills, credit card and bank statements can usually be found online. SIDE NOTE: Scanning everything isn't the answer. Don't get rid of physical clutter only to add to digital clutter - scan only what you need.
File - Any documents that you need originals of. It's a good idea to also scan these documents as a backup - just in case. For taxes, keep hard copies for 3 years and scan in 5-7 years. The IRS site states: "Keep records for 3 years from the date you filed your original return or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later, if you file a claim for credit or refund after you file your return. Keep records for 7 years if you file a claim for a loss from worthless securities or bad debt deduction."
To do's - Papers that need to be dealt with soon, such as bills, school forms, etc. Place these items in a tray, basket or in a folder - whatever is easier for you do deal with.
In process - Pending papers can also be placed in a tray, basket or in a folder - again whatever is easier for you do deal with.
Keepsakes - Ok this gets a little tricky since I know this can be a sensitive topic. For now let's deal with paper items such as cards, school artwork, etc. Without going into too much detail about each item - keep it to one box per family member. If you're wondering what size box - just make sure each box can be neatly tucked away and is edited as items accumulate.
STEP 2:
Deal with the shred, recycle and scan piles as soon as possible. For filing - label and use general categories but don’t go too crazy with folders and labeling. Also don't use "miscellaneous" as a file name because any and everything will find its way into that file. Complete the to do and in process piles in a timely manner and keep them moving.
STEP 3:
Schedule scanning and shredding on your calendar. You can do this weekly, bi-monthly or monthly depending on what works best for you. Scheduling something on your calendar makes it automatic without delay and prevents piles from stacking up.
OTHER TIPS:
Give yourself time (if needed) - When you get started it can be frustrating. Don't give up! If you need to, schedule 15-30 minutes a day and do it in small increments until you’re done.
Unsubscribe to mailings using sites such as DMA Choice to remove your name from mailing lists (for a $2 fee) and Opt Out Prescreen for credit card solicitations.
Go digital and paperless as much as possible for bills, statements and anything else that is available paperless.
Keep important original documents in a fireproof safe and make copies of them just in case.
Deal with incoming mail and paper daily.
Have a specific question on paper clutter or need help getting started? Contact me here.
SOURCES: Image 1: Pinterest/Bigso Image 2: Container Store: Bigso Black Woodgrain Desktop File
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