In order to keep our papers straight without having to run to the (upstairs) filing cabinet every time the mail comes in, I use an expandable file folder (the kind with the handle that has a plastic latch to close it). I have labeled the inside tabs with the months of the year. In the very front, I put bills to be paid. After the bills have been paid, I label "PD 5-25-07 [or whatever the date is]" with the check number or online confirmation number. Then I stick it behind that month's tab. Everything that needs to be filed gets put behind the month that I received or paid it -- car registration paperwork, kids' medical information, etc.

Then, once a year, I go through and toss what I no longer need and file the rest. It takes me less than half an hour total to do this.

It works for me! For more WFMW tips, go here.

Because we have a 13-gallon trash can that likes to let go of 13-gallon trash bags . . . and the 30-gallon trash bags end up sitting around too long waiting to be filled after we take them out of the can . . . and the thought of 30 gallons of diapers is just a little too repugnant for me . . .

Hey, it works for me! For other great WFMW tips, go here.