by Janet Nusbaum
http://www.TheOrganizingGenie.com
©
2009 "Get Organized" ranks in the Top 10 most
popular New Year Resolutions. If "Get Organized" ranks high on your
list of goals for 2009, here are some frequently overlooked, yet important things
to help you get an organized start in the New Year. - Purge and clean
out current and outdated paperwork. Get rid of papers you've saved that you won't
refer to again. (Tip: 95% of everything you've saved for over six months can probably
be thrown away.) Ask your accountant how long you should retain old financial
records. Accountants typically recommend that you retain old tax returns forever,
but supporting information can be destroyed between 4 and 7 years after the filing
date. If you don't need an item for tax or legal reasons, consider whether it
should be retained at all. Shred anything containing account numbers or other
information not meant for others to see. If you would like to receive a copy of
my Retention Guideline Tip Sheet, just e-mail me and I'll send you a copy.
-
Organize your financial records. Tax time is approaching, so make sure your financial
records are organized and easily accessible. Accordion case files are an excellent
option for filing and containing all financial records pertaining to a tax year.
When needed all your tax information is accessible in one file box already divided
by category. I've personally used this system for 2 years and have recommended
it to countless clients. This system has cut the clutter in my home significantly.
-
Organize your property records. Update your home inventory, documenting any significant
purchases with photos and receipts. Store in a safe place such as a safe deposit
box or fireproof safe. Better yet, store it at a relative or friend's home in
another city.
- Update important legal documents. Review your will,
power of attorney, living will, etc., to make sure that any changes in your personal
situation (e.g., marriage, divorce, birth or adoption of a child) properly document
your desired and current life situation.
- Update your list of
account numbers and passwords. With the threat of identity theft on the rise,
it is critical to be able to easily access all your account information when you
need it. Include numbers for bank accounts, credit cards, investments, insurance
policies, etc. You should also update your list of important contacts including
attorney, insurance agent, investment broker, doctor, accountant, etc. Give a
copy of this list to a family member or trusted friend or inform him/her of the
location of this information in the event of an emergency.
Do
these tasks early in the year so you can get an organized start in the new year.
Accomplishing these tasks also helps you get organized for tax season.
Credit: About
the Author: Janet Nusbaum, AKA The Organizing Genie, an
Organizing Consultant, Speaker, Author of 'Mom, Can I Help Around the House?'
and owner of The Simplified Home organizing product on-line store. Grab a copy
of Janet's FREE special report "Shelf Life of 75 Common Household Products"
here, http://www.TheSimplifiedHome.net
. Get even more home and office organization help by visiting her blog - http://www.TheOrganizingGenie.com
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