{This post is part of the Great Paper Challenge: From Piles to *almost* Paperless series.}
Once you have started using your physical in-basket(s), the next step in getting paper clutter under control is to set up monthly file folders. Monthly file folders will ensure that you have a place for any new, reoccurring documents like bills, monthly statements and receipts. (Remember, we’ll work on going paperless later in the series, but for now we’re dealing with any hard documents you may accumulate throughout the year.)
Monthly File Folders
There are a couple of ways to set up your monthly filing system.
12 Tab Expanding File
The first, which I used last year, is a 12 tab expanding file. For someone with minimal paperwork or even someone just entering college and learning to live on their own, this is a good option because of the following features:
- It’s portable.
- It’s great for small spaces.
- It has 12 tabs and 13 pockets; one for each month and one for tax documents.
- The one I used last year can stand alone on a desk and the front cover easily slides into it’s own pocket for easy filing. That was my favorite feature!
In the midst of climbing out of my own paper pile last year, the 12 tab expanding file enabled me to keep the current year documents organized quite easily.
12 Monthly Hanging Folders
Now that I have real file drawers, though, and incentive to keep them looking nice and organized, I’ve moved on to what I think is a much better way to file monthly documents: hanging folders.
Although the documents aren’t quite as portable if you need to take them to a CPA, adding 12 monthly hanging folders to your file drawer will keep your files uniform and will ensure that all your file are in one place (rather than having some in an expandable file, some in a file box, and others in a file drawer).
If you are using an alphabetical filing system, I’d recommend adding 12 monthly hanging folders to your file drawer instead of using file folders behind one of the letters. If you’re using a categorical filing system, this should be one of your categories.
For those using the Freedom Filer 2 sets of monthly file labels should be included in your package so you can rotate between even and odd years. I must admit this is one of my favorite features about the Freedom Filer because I was never prepared to empty my monthly folders on December 31 so I could start fresh the next year.
Supplies Needed:
12 Tab Expanding File
- If you plan on using an expanding file, make sure to get one with 12 tabs. Again, my favorite I’ve ever used is the Pendaflex Sliding Cover Expanding File but use whatever works best for you.
12 Monthly Hanging Folders
If you plan on using the hanging file method, here are the supplies you’ll need:
- 12 Hanging Folders (I’ve stated previously that it may be a good idea to go with plain jane folders so they’re easily replaceable. I know it’s boring but it’s my recommendation none the less. If you want to be more creative, have at it!)
- 12 Hanging Folder Tabs
- 12 Labels, one with each month written/typed on it. *NOTE: Labels are included in the Freedom Filer so no need to duplicate if you have that package.
**Double the above if you want to rotate folders on a yearly basis.
Action Items for Today
- Determine if you’ll use an expanding file, hanging files, or the Freedom Filer.
- Label 12 (or 24) folders January through December.
- Begin emptying your in-box and filing paid bills, receipts and other monthly statements.
Let’s hear from you…
How do you file monthly bills, statements, and receipts? Or, do you file them?
Click here to read more about the Great Paper Challenge: From Piles to *almost* Paperless!
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