Storing Your Records

You may want to consider storing records electronically (on your computer). Keeping bank statements, tax returns, insurance policies, etc. will take up less room and be easier to find when you need it. There are some items, e.g. stock certificates, deeds, etc. that you must retain the original so be certain you retain the original in addition to an electronic version for these documents. When in doubt keep the original or ask a professional.

If you do decide to keep your documents on your computer be sure you back them up either through an online service or to a flash drive or other backup system. If you need assistance, a tech professional can easily help you with this and it is well worth the cost. In addition to keeping a backup in your home or office an online or offsite system is important as it will keep your records somewhere other than your business or home that they can be accessed should you have a natural disaster or fire occur.

Be Aware! In today’s world identity theft is a serious threat and it is important to take precautions to avoid it. When disposing of records that are no longer necessary you should be certain to shred them, not just rip them or throw them in the trash. If you have any records on your computer and must change computers or hard-drives, for any reason, be sure that the disk is wiped clean before disposal.