A Year of Files

Ever wonder where to put that bill that isn't due for two months or the coupon that won't expire until the summer? 

One of my favorite paper filing tips comes from David Allen's book, Getting Things Done.  Although a lot of his tips are geared to executives, I've used his system of monthly files for two or three years.

Basically, you label one file folder for each month.  If you have to file a piece of paper that you need to refer to in an upcoming month, you tuck the paper into the appropriate folder.  If I have something that is due or expires within the first few days of a month, I usually file it in the previous month's folder, so I respond in a timely fashion. 

These twelve folders sit in my active file box and I always keep the current month to the front.  When the month is over, I tuck the folder to the back so the files are always being rotated. 

I've found this filing system useful not just for bills and coupons/gift certificates, but for magazine clippings for crafts, recipes, and other sundry details than I want to remember to take advantage of next year.

David Allen also suggested keeping thirty-one folders, for each day of the month, but my work doesn't require anything that exacting.  However, the twelve monthly folders are a tip I'd highly recommend you take advantage of.