Blitz the paperwork drawer
What to keep or ditch

There’s something deeply satisfying about getting organised, whether it’s creating a budget with saving goals or decluttering and improving your overflowing filing system (or just tidying the sock drawer!)

Being on top of your personal finances is a lifelong project, the same as exercising or eating well.

If your home filing system is bursting at the seams, it might be time for a paperwork purge. Doing your life admin like a pro can really pay off. Firstly, make sure you dispose of any sensitive paperwork properly with a crosscut paper shredder to protect your personal data.
Also, ensure digital copies are stored securely, with encryption and backups/

Keep forever
• Birth, marriage and death certificates
• Pension documentation
• Life Insurance original policy document
• Your Will (with nothing stapled or clipped to it!)
• Letter of Wishes (include funeral plans)
• Qualifications
• Trust deeds

Keep until expiry
• Passport, driving licence

Keep for five years
• Business income records used to fill in your tax return

Keep for one year
• Payslips
• Utility bills

Best stored digitally
• Bank, Investment, Pension statements,
• Mortgage agreements
• Insurance policies
• Powers of Attorney
• House deeds
• Credit card, mobile phone records

This information is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.