Скачать или смотреть Keep or Shred? A Guide to Decluttering Your Documents

Around the tax filing deadline, I often feel the urge to declutter my files.

With the digital age in full swing, our physical file cabinets might be feeling a bit neglected while our digital folders are bulging at the seams. But before you hit delete on those old documents, let's talk about what you should keep and what you can safely discard.

First things first, when it comes to tax documents submitted to the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency), you'll want to hold onto them for at least six years. Yes, you read that right – six years from the end of the tax filing year. So those 2023 documents need to stay put until the end of 2029. It may seem like a long time, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

Certain legal documents, such as insurance policies, real estate transaction documents, contracts, and wills, should be kept permanently. These are the kind of documents you'll want to hold onto for the long haul, as they can have significant legal and financial implications.

But what about the rest? Monthly statements from your bank or investment accounts can pile up quickly. Save yourself some space by holding onto them until you receive your year-end statement, then they can be safely discarded. The same goes for expired warranties, utility bills, and medical records that are no longer relevant.

Now, here's the crucial part – when you're ready to part ways with these documents, don't just toss them in the recycling bin. Shred them to keep your personal information safe from prying eyes. Identity theft is a real concern and taking this extra step can provide some much-needed peace of mind.

Decluttering your digital life and your paper files isn't just about tidying up – it's about creating a more organized and efficient system for managing your documents. By following these tips, you'll not only free up space but also make it easier to find the documents you really need when you need them. So let's get organized together – think of me as the new executive on your team, here to help you streamline your digital workflow.