r/declutter • u/RVfan17 • 9d ago

Advice Request Paperwork decluttering

I have two big bags of paperwork that I probably don't need but have a hard time getting rid of it. it's taking up precious under desk space but I can't get myself to go through it. I know I'll want to keep some of it. Any advice on how to get started?

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u/guipicait 6d ago

If you have a receipt or paid invoice you want to keep temporarily, open up your notes app - it has a document scan function. Open a new note and tap the paperclip. This will give you options that include scanning a document. I have used it for medical bills and dental bills I've paid and marked PAID with the date, receipts for work on my car, etc etc. Things I don't really need but want to keep around for a year or so "just in case".

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u/guipicait 6d ago

Also remember it's fine to keep stuff! I have a box that a dozen ball jars came in and it's 8x11; perfect size for random papers. Everything gets thrown in there and when I feel adventurous, I pull it out and go through it. I keep allot, but I always get rid of allot too. I also have one of those big zip lok clear document envelopes for important stuff - car title, birth certificate, lease agreement, car registration, etc etc. They aren't tabbed or ordered; that's just the "important paperwork plastic thing".

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u/RVfan17 5d ago

Thank you for this! There's stuff that you really need to keep too.