I have a habit of just stacking paperwork everywhere. Neat piles, but piles nonetheless. They're full of to do stuff. Bills, school, coupons, etc. Too much! It drives me crazy to see it there, but I figure I'll get to it sooner if I leave it out. It's a work in progress. A problem I know how to fix.
I'm a big fan of binders. It all began back in elementary school when the beloved and nostalgic Trapper Keepers came into existence. I believe I had this exact one at some point. Do you remember your first one?
I'm not suggesting using a Trapper Keeper unless that's what floats your boat, but they do still sell them. Either way, a binder is a blessing if you want to organize your paperwork. What do you need to keep? Where should you keep them afterwards? There are so many options. Hard binder, soft binder, pockets, brad fasteners, rings, you name it. It really depends on what you want. The beginning of the school year is when you can find the best prices on these supplies.
The WHAT
Marriage license
Mortgage/Rent
Birth certificates
Social Security cards
Passports
Insurance: Life/Health
Vehicle registration/insurance
Medical records
Wills
Titles
School registration for kids
Current photo of family/children for proof of family in case of emergency.
Any other paperwork that needs to be kept on hand for reference would be saved in a sturdy 3-ring binder. Include sheet protectors and insert pertinent information without fear of them being damaged. Insurance information can be changed out as it's renewed and voila! you have your major paperwork organized. Most binders have a plastic front where you can slide in a DIY label or I am a huge fan of a labels. I'm getting ready to upgrade my label maker...excited!
The WHERE
Anywhere you feel you can access it whenever you need it. My suggestion is a bookshelf or desk area. I have seen it work tucked in a file cabinet. Wherever it won't be damaged or lost. A fire safe box is probably the best option for storage. God forbid something were to happen where you couldn't grab it before any devastation. I'm not calling it down on us. No way! but sadly it has to be said. We can never be too careful with ourselves, family and valuables.
I know even after you achieve success with that organization you still have papers left. Just ask! I would love to meet with you and go over how I can help you organize further. My ideas are endless! Consultation is free.