Filing Tips

The other day I had to catch up on my filing for my home. Even Car Talk (read blog http://www.clutterfree.biz/categories/filing) didn’t help. I realized I needed to make some drastic changes in where my files were located. I was using a desk that came from my Mother and whose file drawer never has been easy to use, but I really like the desk so put up with the inconvenience. Well, I decided to let my daughter take over using the desk, but I was going to keep the file drawer. With that change came a printer in front of the drawer and a bigger chair. Filing became a PAIN!

I liked my daughter using the desk because she does work for me and that gives her a good place for her computer. I didn’t want to move my personal files to my office even though that is next to my house. So the option I elected was buying a large plastic file box and setting in on a bed in an unused room. I love it. Now instead of waiting to file, I just take what comes in that needs to be filed and drop it in the file.

Here is what makes it easier. See if you can adapt these ideas to make your filing easier.
I no longer have to get on my knees to file. The box is at the right level to use.
I don’t have to take off the lid. Convenience is king.
No longer are the files crowded, so it is easy to put items in.

Here is my advice if you are thinking of purchasing a file cabinet. Make sure the prime drawer you are using is a comfortable height. Then either buy a really, really old one or a buy a really, really good one. Many new ones are lovely to look at but they have cheap and impractical guts in them and so they are a pain to use. I have an ancient filing cabinet in my office I think you could drive a truck over. It has been painted and stenciled. Now it is painted the same color of my office walls and it blends in. If all else fails, use a plastic filing box and put it where it is convenient.

Can’t decided what to keep or how long to keep items?  Go to IRS.gov ……Is your filing system confusing? Check out Homefiles (on my website). It follows my mantra of Simple Is Smart. It's what I use to keep my personal files organized.