You definitely need a file drawer OR a separate filing cabinet. Make sure to have plenty of file folders on hands as well as hanging files to put tabs.
Does your file cabinet look like this? {via}
Below, are my files in my filing cabinet...many are recycled over and over. So, most are labeled with my label maker, but when I'm in a hurry, I just write them in marker.
My bottom drawer I have divided into manuals (including anything we purchase for our home like lawnmowers, appliances, etc.) and I also included automobile information (including oil changes, major work done on cars, any important paperwork for each car). Lastly, I have put my kids school report cards and my son's IEP (individualized education plan - an annual meeting to review the year's performance and plan to help him improve the next year.). Then, I have hanging files labeled A-Z. I simply placed a file folder inside each of the hanging files with the first name of the manual (vacuum cleaner under V, etc.).
If you are determined to get your files in order, decide on a few things.
- You MUST keep the last seven years' worth of income taxes so anything older, throw out (well, shred would be best).
- If you own a home, make a section for each of your home's major papers (i.e., insurance, mortgage, deeds, major work done to your house, etc.). If you sell your house, you have all this information to give to the new owner.
- If your kids are in school, you homeschool, or have a special needs child, make a file to sort through the report cards or IEPs or other things for each kid. (I don't recommend putting birth certificates or social security in a file drawer - instead, file in a security lock box in a safe place).
- Another file section can include the miscellaneous areas with A-Z separated in sections. This can include anything else around your house that you just think you should keep!
That's it, really! It's not rocket science. It's simple and I hope to motivate you to get your files in order! Get to work!
Part 1 of organizing your office
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I just did something similar in my home. It is such a pain, but feels soooo good when it is done!
ReplyDeleteI just did something similar in my home. It is such a pain, but feels soooo good when it is done!
ReplyDeletelol.. I just redid all the files in my office too. I am revamping my office. I did one post on it.. but have another one coming up soon.
ReplyDeleteI always did the same thing... just wrote on the folders, or the little paper that slides in the folder. I finally used my label maker to do all of them... and I do have to admit it looks a lot better.
I'd love for you to link up some of your office posts to my Organizing Mission Monday link party.
Thanks Becky!
You always have such helpful and great tips!
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for sharing your story and linking up!
xoxo,
Jen
Thanks for all the valuable office organization info.
ReplyDelete