Piling may be the only way you are comfortable organizing your papers. An article in the New York Times suggested that you should embrace your piling habits, that total organization is a "futile attempt to deny and control the unpredictability of life".
The unpredictability of life is exactly why the JOYS® system was created. Frankly, you will find a few piles around my office on any given day.
However, even the most prolific piler needs a simple system to help them organize their most important records and vital information.
The stress of trying to collect essential papers during a difficult time will greatly compound the challenges for any family.
Give your loved ones peace of mind and put your important papers in a safe place.
Documents
The most important papers. They contain official information. They provide proof of ownership, responsibility and identity. These are the most difficult papers to replace if lost.
Financial
An official paper showing an agreement regarding money or insurance.
CD
Bond
Endowment
Grant
Note
Policy
Securities
Warranty
Kept for ownership + support.
Identification
An official paper showing specifics regarding personal information.
Citizenship
Certificate
License
Passport
Kept indefinitely.
Legal
An official paper stating an agreement, a request, a decision or an ownership.
Citation
Conveyance
Contract
Decree
Indictment
Order
Permit
Subpoena
Summons
Warrant
Will
Kept for a lifetime.
Ownership
An official paper showing property ownership.
Closing
Deed
Inspection
Lease
Title
Trademark
Patent
Kept for ownership + support.
Records
These papers support past activity and information. Primarily needed for tax and insurance purposes. However, health, employment, finances and ownership are supported from these facts.
Credential
Papers that prove personal abilities or experience.
Accreditation
Authorization
Citation
Certifications
Diploma
License
Resume
Kept for a lifetime.
Evidence
Papers that support one or more reasons that something is or is not true.
Authorization
Diary
Endorsement
Journal
Letter
Log
Reference
Testimonial
Validation
Kept for support.
Financial
Papers that prove money has been received, is owed or has been paid.
Bill
Check
Confirmation
Invoice
Receipt
Sell Order
Statement
Kept for support.
Form
A paper where information can be recorded in an organized way.
Application
Claim
Worksheet
Kept for support.
References
These papers provide general or specific information regarding any subject. This type of paper is responsible for most clutter. Use it, need it, or toss it, unless it makes you smile.
General
A paper providing general information on interests, products or services.
Ads
Brochures
Clippings
Checklists
Directories
Newsletters
Reports
Schedules
Kept for use.
Keepsake
A paper or item that provokes a fond memory.
Artwork
Awards
Cards
Letters
Photos
Writings
Kept for smiles.
Manual
A group of papers that instruct how to do or use something.
Policy
Codes
Procedures
Products
Kept for use.
Redeemable
A paper used to obtain admission, special pricing, products or services.
Coupons
Tickets
Tokens
Vouchers
Kept for use.
