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Once you have everything in front of you, make three new piles: Pay, File and Shred.

Take statements and bills out of their envelopes. If you find a bill that needs to be paid, do it on the spot, says Monica Ricci, an organizing expert and author of Organize Your Office in No Time. "Paying bills as they come in gets them off your plate physically and mentally," Monica says.

Bank, insurance and brokerage statements should be filed in their folders. Consider getting a shredder to get rid of obsolete files with personal info and other papers you don't need. Then recycle.

Follow the 5 Ds to give your paperwork an organizational overhaul Watch
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.

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