Downsizing Paperwork: The One File That Stays With You
Moving boxes are excellent for dishes, books and linens.
They are not the best place for documents you may suddenly need.
Before your downsizing move, create one portable file or tote clearly labeled Important Papers — Keep With Me.
Use it for documents you may need throughout the move and closing process, such as identification, relevant real estate and closing information, insurance contacts, moving-company information, important medical information you need readily accessible, pet records when applicable, and essential contact information.
The exact documents will differ from household to household.
The important rule is that this container travelswith you, rather than disappearing into the moving truck.
Downsizing also creates an excellent opportunity to reduce accumulated paperwork. Separate records that must be retained from outdated duplicates and routine material you no longer need.
Sensitive documents should be disposed of securely.
Martha’s Tip:Use brightly colored folders inside the tote: HOME, MEDICAL, MOVE, PETS and PERSONAL. During a stressful moving week, simple organization is valuable.
Your paperwork does not need to be perfect.
It needs to befindable.
Request Martha’s Smart Senior’s Downsizing Guide.
