Office storage can look homely rather than business-like

Narrow down paperwork to the essentials that must be kept and sort into relevant categories.

  • Bin all old leaflets, catalogues and junk mail that isn't of interest.
  • Check shopping receipts and cash machine slips against your bank/credit card statements, and shred any that you don't need to keep.

 

What to keep in your files

Select a mixture of boxes and trays to suit your requirements

Have a file for each of the following - some may need to be sub-divided into plastic sleeves

  • Statements from banks and building societies, credit-card bills
  • Car - MOT certificates, registration and insurance documents (separate files for each vehicle)
  • Employment records, payslips, pension information and tax returns
  • Family - one file for each child with health and school records, etc
  • Property - mortgage papers, building warranties
  • Instruction manuals and warranties for appliances (bin any for items you no longer own)
  • Insurance policies - separate into buildings, contents, health, travel
  • Medical cards
  • Bills - separate into gas, electricity, water, telephone and broadband, council tax, TV licence, etc
  • Miscellaneous correspondence - keep an extra A-Z file for this
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What to keep in a fireproof box or cabinet

Minimise the risk of losing important documents

Hard-to-replace documents should be stored securely, such as:

  • Certificates of birth, marriage, divorce, custody/adoption and death
  • Diplomas, qualifications and examination certificates
  • House insurance policy details - key information in case of emergency
  • Your will - keep a copy at home
  • Passports and visas
  • Share certificates and savings books


What to keep at your solicitor's office

  • House deeds
  • Original copies of your current will