The SECRET organized mail & receipts! (NO MORE CLUTTER!)

You asked so here it is! In this video we tackle how to organize, store and access paperwork, bills, receipts, mail and more. Conquering mail clutter! I'll show you two powerful systems that really work!
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Kathryn "Doitonadime"
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Matthews, NC USA
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Music by licensed by Epidemic Sound.
This is not a sponsored video. All opinions are genuinely my own. Links contain affiliates.

[@livinglargeonasmallbudget1027]

Love your ideas. Wanted to share one that helped me. I bought a Neat desk scanner and it is awesome and easy to use. I still use the freedom filer for important papers I need the origional of like tax documents or birth certificates for example. Everything else is scanned into the Neat Desk and then thrown into recycling. I can search any document, receipt or business card and best of all if I'm not sure what I'm looking for (like a recipe) I can just type "chicken" into the search function and it brings up anything that matches that in any document. Nothing is ever lost and best of all I am free of excess clutter. Now I call that a win-win.

[@brendalg4]

Do you still use it? I heard something bad about it that it went out of business or the software isn't good anymore or something

[@johexxkitten]

My husband always laughs because I asked for a filing cabinet for Christmas several years ago. But he did get me a rather lovely wooden 3 drawer cabinet. I keep 1 drawer for household paperwork. Even he admits it’s nice knowing where papers are when they’re needed. The other 2 drawers are for my writing and for my research notes that I use when I’m writing. He still says I ask for the most random gifts. His colleagues at work always look forward to hearing what random gift was “on my list” each year. So far (the ones that come to mind) ▪️Filing cabinet ▪️Soldering iron (I’m a qualified stained glass Artist). ▪️Suitcases (they’re gorgeous & Purple). ▪️College Course (part time evening classes in cake decorating). This Christmas I just had lots of money! Ok I actually had my husband transfer me a bunch of money to go to IKEA to buy the bedroom vanity I wanted, including the lights, mirror, chair, and the barstool/chair I can use in the kitchen (I’m disabled and cannot stand to prep stuff and I miss working in the kitchen). So I’m off to IKEA at the weekend! 😍 The other thing I got was a lockup box... I have made us a preparedness box. If there is ever an emergency evacuation situation, we grab the box from it’s hiding place (it’s near the exit, so we pass it on the way out, so no times wasted). Inside there are our drivers licences (we don’t have to carry them in the U.K.) our passports, other ID’s, birth, marriage certificates. Plus ALL insurance documents/certificates, lists of medications. Basically everything we might need if the worst should happen. We sadly had a friend lose everything in a house fire last November, and they struggled without insurance documents. It just took everything so much longer. So now we have a “grab it” box should the worst happen.

[@afaintmemory]

I appreciate how quick, useful, specific and positive this video was

[@elizabethcabrera23]

I have seen several other videos on how to organize mail from other channel and I have to say your system is the best for me .Very simple and easy to keep up with. I am going to a Sunday basket with your method because I never go through my mail right away. so every Sunday I will go through my basket of mail and sort it out. Thank you for the best organization option for me.

[@stayathomewithrandee8099]

I love this method! I watched your old video on this over a year ago & switched my filing system! I used hanging files I already had, one color for odd year and another for the even year. And it makes so much more sense for me to store everything by month instead of by type of item. 💜💜💜

[@doronvergun5488]

I have my file folders: To File, To Do, To Pay, Taxes and I just cleared out my filing cabinet and anything that is online statements is being served online. Totally reduced my filing cabinet mess and stress but now I need to find the time to shred a laundry basket full of paperwork. :( But at least my filing cabinet is easier to work with and much happier.

[@mickyunit]

Doron Vergun Way to go!!! I'm doing the same thing, except I'm just tackling shredding one or two folders a night. Otherwise I'd have 5 laundry baskets full!!! I'm looking at almost 30 years of paperwork! 😫😫

[@SophieMia806]

mickyunit ...That sounds like me! I save everything, and it gets so overwhelming trying to go through everything. I really need to learn what I need to keep, and for how long, and what I can get rid of. I know I have paperwork from 20-30 years ago, too. Plus I'm a packrat, too. Good luck getting your paperwork in order. =)

[@petmomful2260]

@Rachel House My husband burns our stuff in the fire pit in the yard. I do very little shredding now! Yay!

[@KatiesLifeAdventure]

I have something to make this super easy if you rotate the month folder to the back of both yearly sections then you only have to empty the folder of the current month from 2 years ago so at the beginning of the month you check, scan (if you think you might need to keep longer) and shred to make room for the new month. This way your always keeping it at a 2 year rotation and only file into the front folder! Love your channel thank you for the idea.

[@TheCaldwells]

This is so incredibly organized. You are such an inspiration Kathryn!! Thanks.

[@05251975able]

I’m so happy I finally found a neater and easier way to file my paper, thanks

[@05251975able]

Thank you so much your site is exactly what is going to make my life a whole lot easier.

[@amyli092]

I'm still living at home with my parents, so this video was more of a good thing to think about in the future for when I have to pay my own bills. Big thanks to you, Kathryn! :)

[@sariahsue]

My mother has said her big clutter problem is paper. Sharing this with her. Thanks!

[@aliciaunaryan4751]

I love your system, it's so easy & practical. Need to make changes amongst my paperwork. Greetings from South Africa

[@mariannesears4760]

Love this monthly idea! I’m converting today!

[@alishaberrey5114]

You are a genius. I've been trying to get my files organized for about.... five years. Your monthly system is so much easier. Where did you get you file tabs?

[@KJ-iv4bq]

I've been fighting a cold the past 3 days and have been laying in bed re-watching all your videos 😂 My husband thinks I'm a weirdo but watching organization videos relaxes me and your positivity is contagious! Thanks for such a great video! Totally organizing our files once I'm better! 💕

[@klomax7089]

Omg I love it. I just got file cabs and planned on doing filing by items, even though I collect everything in a binder monthly, what am I thinking?!? I love the odd even year idea! Thx for sharing 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@bookbreakdown704]

You are a genius.

[@retromolar1]

My parents had saved payment stubs for everything for 40+ years. When my Dad passed, it was so hard for my Mom. I also tended to save everything. Come to find out, you don't need it. Any bill can be assessed online or you can request a copy. I no longer have a bank statement, it is seen electronically. I have some permanent files, but only save needed receipts in a envelope, a file for commissioned employment, taxes up to three years, and a file for the current year tax receipts. If you are saving every credit card statement for payment records, stubs from utilities, etc., it is only busy work. There is a list online of 12 items every person should store in a fire safe box. It really helps put things in perspective. Also, the less mail you receive, the less paper you have to deal with.

[@jangle318]

I have the freedom filer as well. Got it a few months back and am still working on getting everything organized. I’ve got the basic things done, but the most challenging for me is where to file things like memories (i.e. Christmas cards, newspaper inserts, party invitations that I like to keep, etc).

[@cr85lupe]

LOVED IT!!! AWESOME TIPS, THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART, YOU'RE A LIFESAVER🤗🤗🤗 HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

[@wendyodell356]

Great tips Kathryn, thanks for sharing 💟💟💟

[@BruceAUlrich]

Some good tips! I like the idea of just 3 categories.

[@cablemantv31]

Awesome video! Please do some budget/saving videos! Thanks

[@paramk634]

Can you do a video on how to set up home office and essentials required on a budget?

[@aureliaharrison5345]

Love the desk label system, very simple but good methods.

[@abcdecoratingparadise]

Ms. Do It On A Dime I really enjoyed watching this video and all the wonderful tips to get organized.

[@SpringRain2010]

I have a pretty good filing system...BUT YOUR GREAT TIP about the ODD & EVEN numbers is fantastic!!! Thank you!

[@tracypourciau8474]

THANK YOU!!! For the first time in decades I don’t have a pile of papers on my kitchen counter. This made so much sense.

[@whoIsJasmineblack]

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

[@LoiteringReaper]

Before shredding, digitalize the documents into a secure cloud storage. Helpful in situations of needing a specific document years back for any reason.

[@Whatworksthisworks]

Love your turtleneck!!! Looks great!! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and tips!

[@acrobaticanna]

Well done! You did well simplifying and explaining a usually complex and overwhelming task. Happy new year. I will be watching 99.99% of your videos this year. (Not some of the cooking ones)

[@laurenmmendoza3215]

I really like the filing system! This might be my solution at last!

[@euniceroman]

Great Idea! thanks for sharing!

[@jbjacres3711]

I love the file by month idea! Personally I cannot handle an action folder because I can't see into it. I have a wall mount magazine rack that is see-through wire mesh. It holds my bills or anything else that is time sensitive. It really cuts down on my procrastination and/or poor memory issues. :)

[@LaNoirBella]

Quick and to the point! Love it!

[@jhecx2]

This is so funny, I already use this system lol except the even and odd year but I’m going to try it out. Thanks for sharing 😀

[@ALEXAS2012]

Good ideas! Start now! Thank you :)

[@bonniesmith5038]

love all the great tips you give us xo

[@senoraantero2836]

I agree with all of this.. I am a bookkeeper and the monthly system works very well. When I managed a roofing office I would do a similar system of have “pay bill” etc and every Friday when I would print payroll checks I would empty that folder .. helps stay on top of things 👍🏽

[@lavidaesbella27]

Please do a video on how to do a budget

[@zebboriah]

Check out Dave Ramsey. Easiest budget advise and software out there. He helped me get rid of $35k in debt.

[@tehilash7292]

Thanks! You have another file decluttering video wich helped me get rid of 99% of my papers!!!!!🙏🙏🙏

[@FoxyFinances]

This is exactly what I’ve been doing for about 5 years now. It works so well!

[@ligiaguerra8307]

Great idea thank you!

[@caramoonlynn]

I have been organizing my statements by month for a couple of years now. My husband thinks I'm crazy because he thinks you need to do it by category because that's how his mom doesn't :-) haha but yes! It saves a lot of time and headaches.

[@danabrown1157]

Kathryn I Just Love, Love, Love your videos! And this filing system is such a GREAT ideal! I am really wanting to be more organized this year! I hope you like your Christmas card I sent you! You and your sweet family have truly been a blessing to me! ❤

[@noneofbus2346]

I have the same file folders. I would love to see an office tour.

[@claudiarivera5913]

I think that a good sequel to this video would be a good budgeting/organizing tool as well.. LOL Thank you for your videos, as inspiring as always!

[@cherylward5315]

COOL!!! Thank you SO MUCH...

[@DansonforJoy]

Love this method suggestion! Thank you for sharing it with us, Kathryn! 😊

[@bgibson5517]

good presentation and tips for getting started, thank you.

[@bwynn3296]

Thank u for these ideas I will b getting organized using your ideas. Ty n love u n fam

[@janicenapoleon1911]

Great video!!!!

[@hannahshappyhome]

This was such a great idea and an awesome system to follow! I'm defiantly going to start doing this

[@jeanineruby]

I disagree. I have files for each payee and/or financial institution. Then when I want to find a CC or bank statement, etc., and I’m not sure of the date, I have just one folder to go thru instead of perhaps 24. Plus I don’t have that many bills so I have just 8-10 folders and I purge on my Jan Birthday so nothing gets piled up. I keep everything in a magazine folder which takes up just one small corner of my desk. It’s always in view and not forgotten in a big filing cabinet. My digital reminders remind me when something needs attention so no need for busy and cluttered paper wall calendars. Your videos are great with lots of wonderful ideas. I just happen to disagree - from experience - with this idea.

[@melissakiwigal]

I agree..

[@catherineyoung2217]

I have tried both ways: by months and by type of company. Since I have a small business, it helps me better when I file by types of company for taxes. Still, when it comes to receipts from stores or bank ATM receipts, I still end up with a ball of messy receipts. I mean to scan and attach them to the line items on the Quickbooks, but never have the time!! I hate our income tax system! Wastes so much time of ours and resources such as papers. We spend most of our days commuting to work and trying to deal with junk mail-both paper and electronically-doing filing papers for the dumb government, and pay them! Why isn’t any other person complaining?-Sorry, but I needed to vent. 😤

[@TheIngym23]

I agree most paperwork you dont need to keep for two years and it is easier to find a bill by category than by the month you paid it. when I get a new bill I remove the last old one. Even better receive bills by email and you dont have to worry about paper clutter!

[@petmomful2260]

@@TheIngym23 My husband wants a paper copy of bills. He does not like to depend on the computer, because he is not that good on it. So I have a binder with each kind of bill labeled and in alphabetical order. I pay them online, put the date I paid it on each bill, and slip it in the binder. In January, I purge them all and just keep the Decembers bill. That way he is happy and I only have one small binder in my office closet. Lol. I wish I could eliminate more paper, but some things I just can't. Paper is a real problem! Every day, more and more comes in!!

[@hilo5901]

I like your idea Jen Ruby. This would work for me because I deplore searching for documents. I keep too many as it is!

[@estealitta]

Yesss thank you!!!!!!

[@ashleyolson4156]

LOVE this video! I am so doing this!

[@Blancagonzalezvlogs]

Great idea!!!!!* Buena idea!!!!!* 👍👍✌

[@marilynhannah3978]

Hi there. Thanks for this easy way of filing but why odd years and even years?

[@MiriamG2012]

Love this

[@larabrown8549]

Hi Katherine, I downloaded your calendar , it is great to thank you. I would love a simple way to organise and keep on top of email. I am always trying new things to find one that works for me. Please share some advice

[@mekeup09]

Hi Katherine! What are the temporary bills I can shred after two years? I have done this wrong. Happy New Year!!! 🎊🎈🎈🎆

[@ericarolli]

Thanks so much!

[@mstje6866]

Great video! Could you do a video of what goes in the permanent file folders and how you declutter those files? I think I still keep too many papers in my permanent files for years.

[@shaeharbin8415]

Ms TJE Yes! I need help with this also!

[@k.0910]

Ms TJE... yes please Katherine... help on this would be great too :)!

[@marilynsedita1902]

Please give examples of titles for PERMANENT FILES and how and when to declutter those files. Thank you !

[@evah8109]

Agreed

[@erinmarshallloxahatcheegro6922]

Anyone know if this video ever got made?

[@anabhousen7159]

I could have used this yesterday when I was trying desperately to organize mail 😣

[@spfisterer3651]

This is an awesome system and I love the 3 folders at the beginning and the permanent storage. But I also know myself: by December I won`t remember if I bought my coffee machine in Feb, March or April... So I am pretty sure this part doesn't work for me :-)

[@user-fu7ck6pz1n]

So helpful! Thank you! 🖤

[@Madi4321]

I'm sorry, but I feel like this is horrible advice. By month? All my car documents (oil changes etc) need to go in the SAME file folder for when I sell my car or whatnot. On a budget? Who has that much storage space. I fear someone young will try this system and it just won't work and the'll suffer a lot for it. (No joke - not finding important documents when you need them is no good.) I don't know - maybe this does work. It just doesn't seem like a good idea at all to me. The first part about FILE, ACTION, or TAX docs was cool (those pesky tax docs - gotta collect them). Sounds like GETTING THINGS DONE. It seemed like he changed the way a generation of people think and organize and how they think about organizing. I only left a comment bc I hope some young person doesn't follow this system and then fall short...maybe you can elaborate on how you find items you need etc and go into more detail? It's a busy busy life for most hard working people...and we need things quick fast and organized.

[@haybatcrawbuck9484]

how often should I shred bills and what should be in red no shred files and what should I shred regularly?

[@lyndaennis8036]

Awsome, thank you for sharing.

[@MarriageMotherhood]

I've been using freedom filer since you recommended it years ago. Its AMAZING! It really helps me to keep paper under control. Thanks for sharing!

[@Tammy_wit_a_y]

What’s freedom filer

[@katiesweeney3600]

Thank you for this video!! Lol if it was 30 degrees here in the uk you’d see all of us British people in swimming costumes and shorts! Comment if you agree!

[@christinecoleman6460]

You have any ideas for decluttering your garage? I have some decorating ideas help please!

[@brandijordan9969]

Ok so what about coupons that you want to use for fast food, portrait studio coupons to JC Penney, Chinese or Kohl’s? I have certificates for gymnastics, photos that need in frames, receipts, owners manuals, baby well check papers with important milestones, and so much more!!

[@retromolar1]

Brandi Jordan I se an accordion file for owners manuals, receipts for electronics, house repairs, etc. You can also use Martha Stewart's way with electronic purchases by keeping the box with manual and receipt stapled to the manual or taped to the box. I keep food coupons in my car in an acrylic envelope which lives slid beside the seat. For restaurant and store coupons, I also store in a coupon keeper in the drivers door. If these coupons are not in my car, they never make it to the store. Knowing yourself is key to any system. For store receipts, keep until you know it fits for clothing or in the accordion box if it is part of a warranty.

[@jmasury6265]

Where do bank type statements go? Monthly or those other more permanent folders?

[@paulineholmes6405]

Hi Kathryn. I love this. I just purchase the freedom file system. But do you have any ideas on how to store your files? I don’t have the space for a file cabinet. I’m searching the amazon, staples and Office Depot/Max for ideas. Help!!!

[@shaylaw4234]

What’s with the even and odd years? Thank you

[@peonyhanabashi]

Hi, could you make a video about how to organise kids papers? Like birth certificate, pass or even artworks or special memories?

[@k.0910]

Peony Hanabashi and I agree; yes please Katherine Do it on a dime please let us know:)!

[@whoaitschrista]

Yes!! I would love to see this too!!

[@autumnarnell1845]

I think she did one before the baby came, but I do remember she did it at least with the oldest.

[@Chulacampos]

She already has a video of important keepsakes for the kids maybe u can do a search in her channel :)

[@petmomful2260]

I had 4 kids. I had a file for each one. Important school papers and drawings went in each one. Report cards, awards, autographs, things like that. If they make a big project, keep it for a while, then take a picture of it and put it in the file. I kept immunizations and birth certificates separately in our safe. When my kids grew up, I gave them their file, and they had fun going thru it. Now they can decide whether to keep it or not! BTW, you cannot keep everything!!

[@BuildAQuilt]

Sorting by the recycle bin is the best habit that I ever cultivated in terms of keeping on top paper clutter. My file system is a bit different, but its worked for 30yrs. 😊

[@christinamoreschi3176]

I got that same shirt from target! Your video inspired me and I got tons of good deals!

[@janetsorianoakaorchidluv8811]

Hi! Thanks for sharing! How long do you have to keep paperwork for business owners? Also, what's an approved scanner to keep receipts or documents? Happy New Year & be blessed!:)

[@jmk2530]

I didn’t understand where the odd year files went- they went to temporary storage? Where is that? What does that mean? Please explain. I would love to simplify my filing system.

[@happykidzclubhouse]

Can you please do a video on how you organize each child’s personal info, documents or school files, medical history files? Do you have a binder for each kid or something? I have three children and would love a way to organize better individually! 😩😩✏️✏️🧐🧐🧐

[@shila7777]

I would buy one transparent container for each child - then hang file folders on each child by subject- sick notes from doctors- health insurance- immunization record- report cards- educational- science- math-social studies- spelling- writing- etc. I always have a box of manila folder handy and write with pencil- so that if I need to change category - I do not waste a manila folder. I also use a label maker to make the categories prominent.

[@juliem6534]

How do you organize all the manuals that come with appliances and such?

[@ACommonLife]

That is so helpful! Thank you!!!

[@mickyunit]

Wow. I can't believe it's that easy??? Going through boxes of paperwork. I'm going to give this a try. Thank you for the quick run thru. Can you review what is your long term storage? Would this include medical, dental, car maintenance, investments , banking and taxes? Your monthlies are pretty much utilities and credit cards? Thanks so much Kathryn, Happy New Year!! Hugs from Dallas!

[@DoItOnaDime]

mickyunit yes, vital records, all medical info, tax info, house information and deed, warranties and manuals

[@mickyunit]

Do It On A Dime I've been decluttering my 5 drawer file cabinet and repurposing my hanging folder system 👍 getting some color coded tabs and looking forward to simplifying my paper dragon 🐉!!! You're the best! Thank you!!!!

[@thepropperway5094]

mickyunit I was wondering the same thing!

[@lisetteguerin1020]

So you can get rid of stuff after that new year comes up.

[@Julia_M-S]

Thank you

[@kazuac]

What are your permanent doc u keep

[@nikka430]

What shredder do you use and is it good?

[@mommiesfrugalfinds7318]

I love your editing. Can u recommend an editing program? Just started using iMovie but it seems pretty simple. Wondering how u put in clips of messages.

[@AfrikanReine92]

What kinds of paper do you suggest we hold on to. I feel like I’m a paper hoarder and will find myself holding on to alot of paper because I feel I may need, also to add I’m doing my masters and I teach at a preschool. I’m overwhelmed with paper clutter and don’t know how to let things go, I still have paystubs from years ago, and my old college essays that I received feedback from when I was an undergrad. My sentimental papers are also adding up, including receipts, if you could provide with some suggestions plz

[@piglet7981]

How do you organize children's clothes for hand me downs

[@yomararivas1551]

This video has given me a great idea . Since I honestly tend to pay all my bills by mail. I know it’s a lot more paperwork but ever since I had an issue with a company and I couldn’t find proof of it since I paid it online. I now pay everything by check and find it easier to go back if I need to. But that works for me but your video will help me organize my papers better this year. Thank You!

[@avon5028]

I pay all bills online too and if there is a dispute, the bank has all the records.

[@jeanetteburgess4649]

I pay online and "print" a copy of the receipt to a folder in OneNote. If I've forgotten a payment, there won't be a receipt there. If you pay from your bank account, using online banking and BPAY, it's also easy to track the payments. 😁

[@April-zh2vm]

I love your videos and upbeat enthusiasm! Filing by the month is a serious game changer can't wait to get start on this!!

[@DoItOnaDime]

April S yay! Good luck April.

[@ip3931]

But you have such a beautiful home! I live in a disgusting , messy, unbearable, pathetic cave next to vicious neighbours. Not coping whatsoever especially disabled, alone and failed.

[@kathymolyetreinbolt8343]

Love it!!! Off to set up my new system!!

[@aprilgalarza4377]

You are my hero!!!! I'm done with stacks of paper! Thank you!

[@brittanywillis2012]

Is there any way you can write your steps down or type them and email them to me in an instruction way. I desperately need to organize my file cabinet!!