How to Organize Files & Paperwork (in Six Easy Steps)

Are your files and paperwork unorganized? Learn how to organize files and paperwork with my six-step process. Get your paperwork and files organized today.

How to Organize Important Documents

My six step process can help you clear out any unnecessary paperwork, so that you can find what you need. You will need a shredder to help you protect any personal information you are discarding. Otherwise, you’ll want to take any personal documents to a shredding company, if you don’t have a shredder.

Steps to Organizing Documents

Step 1: Sort Your Paperwork

The first step to organizing your files and paperwork is to sort them out. You’ll want to make three different sections when you are sorting your paperwork. The three sections are what you are going to shred, what you are going to keep permanently and what you are going to keep temporarily. I have used this process for years. If you sort your paperwork into the three sections mentioned, it will really help you long-term.

Another method to sorting out your paperwork is to shred the paperwork you don’t need. Anything else that you do need, you would scan and create two folders on your computer. The first folder would be labeled, keep permanently. The second folder would be labeled, keep temporarily.

Pick which method you like best for sorting paperwork.

Step 2: Set up a Filing System

In this step you will need to set up a system that works for you. If you have a lot of paperwork to file, you will need a large cabinet to file your paperwork. If you don’t have very much paperwork to file, then you might want a smaller file holder. Pick which one works best for your needs.

Step 3: Label Your Files

The best way to keep your paperwork organized is by labeling your files. By labeling your files, you will know what paperwork is in each file. Therefore, it will be easier for you to access your paperwork faster. This will save you a lot of time.

Step 4: Securely Store Permanent Paperwork

Make sure to properly store your permanent paperwork. You might want to invest in a heavy duty container that will protect your documents. Also, store your permanent paperwork in a safe location where the documents won’t get ruined.

Step 5: Shred Frequently

You will want to shred paperwork that needs shredding on a frequent basis, in order to avoid excess paperwork from piling up. For example, I shred paperwork monthly to make sure it doesn’t pile up. You don’t want your shredding pile to add up. Take it one month at a time.

Step 6: Stay Current

Going forward, make sure you file necessary paperwork when you get it. By doing this, you will stay organized long-term. You will also save yourself a lot of hassle in the future by keeping paperwork from piling up.

Conclusion

By using my six steps to organizing files and paperwork, you can alleviate future stress with managing your files and paperwork. I hope that my process works for you!

Check out the organization section of the blog for more organization tips and tricks!