For many, tax season brings about the dreaded task of scrounging through stacks of paper work – looking for receipts, bills, statements and more.
Forbes published an article this month offering 5 organizational strategies for the disorganized taxpayer.
1. Find the Perfect Spot
Dedicate a specific spot for important tax papers. This spot should be convenient, so you do not fall back into the habit of putting papers in a junk drawer or leaving them on the counter.
Tip: Search Google and Pinterest for organizational ideas.
2. Divide and Conquer
Use file folders or binders to create a filing system. Separate different receipts into categories such as: insurance payments, donations, medical bills, mortgage statements, etc.
3. Consolidate your Finances
Perform financial “decluttering”. Visit our Record Retention Policy, and shred papers you do not need anymore. Consolidate and pay down accounts and/or debt if able.
4. Consider Electronic Storage
Look into apps that allow you to track and store your information online. For example, there are many different apps that will allow you to take pictures of receipts and categorize them.
5. Stow Some Documents Separately
Find a specific place for important documents that should be preserved (will, trust, marriage license, birth certificates, Social Security documents, etc.). These documents should be kept in a fire-safe lockbox.
At Brickley DeLong, we aid your tax planning and preparation process and strive to have it go as seamless at possible. Our clients receive a tax organizer each year to help them answer important questions related to their return. If you need help, we encourage you to set up a tax planning meeting with one of our tax advisors.
To read the full article from Forbes, click here.
Visit our Individual and Business Tax Preparation page for more information on our tax services or to request information.