You will find that using a filing system will help you be organized with your receipts, paid bills, birth certificates, etc. Below is a small list of different files you can create. Of course, each individual will have more or less. Make it a habit of filing papers immediately, or keep a folder to put all papers and at the end or beginning of each month, file them all away in their proper places.

It's good to use expandable file holders (but they will only hold so much). Each year (or as often as needed), go through and place receipts, paid bills, etc. in large envelopes (legal size) and file in boxes.

You can also use binders, the bigger the better, and these are easy to store on shelves and have easy access. Label the outsides and follow the steps from above when the folders get too full. Remove and place in legal size envelopes and file in boxes.

Have separate filing systems for different areas such as: bills and receipts, crafts, recipes, addresses and important dates to remember, magazine clippings, etc. Make separate binders that will hold health/nutrition/beauty items; fashion tips and ideas; home tips and ideas; crafts; recipes; newsletters; and so on.

It's a good idea to put your important papers, such as: birth/death certificates, marriage licenses, passports, etc. in a fireproof box. Make copies to put in your filing system to have on hand.

(read through our article on Organize Your Bills to see how to file your bills, have a payment schedule, etc.)

• Automobile
• Bank Statements (checking/savings)
• Cable/Satellite
• Charitable Giving (keep receipts for tax purposes)
• Child Care (record of payments)
• Church (Tithes/Offerings, membership info, etc.)
• Credit Card Statements
• Home Improvement (keep all receipts for home improvements)
• Insurance (automobile, house/rental, life, medical)
• Legal papers (copies of birth and death certificates, marriage license, passport, etc.)
• Payroll Stubs
• Pets/Animals (receipts for vet visits, shots, medication, heartguard information, etc.)
• Phone Bill
• Public Service/Utilities
• Warranties and /or service contracts on purchases
  (You should keep all paperwork and receipts from these purchases. Keep a copy of the warranty with those papers and receipts and a copy in a warranty folder.)
• Water
• Wireless Services

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