How to Organize Your Financial Paperwork

Organize Your Finances in 4 Steps

Step 1: Get the Tools You Need

By Jean Chatzky with Arielle McGowen

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Having the right supplies will make the process easier. Hanging folders, files and labels are necessities. You'll also want stamps, envelopes, Post-it notes, a stapler and pens. Put them all in a box.

Label your hanging folders according to your needs, but I like to use these categories: home and auto; healthcare and insurance; saving and investing; income and taxes; and credit cards and other debts. Then you can use file folders to sort subcategories. Let's say you have two credit cards; you'll want a folder for each. Start fresh every year.

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Published on February 12, 2009

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Please note: This is general information and is not intended to be legal advice. You should consult with your own financial advisor before making any major financial decisions, including investments or changes to your portfolio, and a qualified legal professional before executing any legal documents or taking any legal action. Harpo Productions, Inc., OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, Discovery Communications LLC and their affiliated companies and entities are not responsible for any losses, damages or claims that may result from your financial or legal decisions.