As Professional Organizers, we often get asked how long to keep a particular type of paper. Online there is an easy to follow record retention guide. On this chart you’ll find that Bank Rate recommends keeping your check stubs for “One year, and then when you receive your annual W-2 form from your employer, make sure the information on your stubs matches. If all information matches, shred the stubs; if not, demand a corrected form, known as a W-2c.” 

Remember to record the direct deposit in your account register as soon as possible so you can reconcile it with your bank statement or online records.

I wish you organizing success!

Who doesn’t like to save a little money? We know some honest ways to saving money that the companies just don’t tell you about upfront. 

Did you know that Bed, Bath & Beyond coupons don’t expire (even though they have an expiration date on them) and you can use up to 5 per visit as long as you are purchasing 5 items? (Don’t worry, it’s true. During a lunch meeting, a corporate representative from BB&B personally shared this information with Diane.) So sign up to start receiving your Bed, Bath & Beyond coupons.

When you buy a large pizza at Pizza Hut, dine in or carry-out, you can get a second one-topping medium pizza for a penny, yes that’s right a penny! The only catch is that your server won’t tell you that it is one of Pizza Hut’s specials. You have to mention the promotion on your own. If you don’t believe it’s true, check out Pizza Hut’s website.

Please help us gather even more money saving secrets! Once we have compiled a list we will share it with our subscribers. Email us your favorite coupon clipping website, favorite deal or hidden discount. But please refrain from sending ones that are only available in your local area.  Don’t wait any longer, email us today at organize@dianealbright.com or post it on our blog.

I had the pleasure of speaking to the PSEA-Retired. The subject of organizing was so well received that patrons of the restaurant of where we were started asking if they could come sit in our banquet room (in other words asking to crash the party). The room was already filled to capacity with an audience of nearly 70 men and women.     

With well deserved time on their hands, these retired teachers are ready to get organized. Or at least they have no excuse now! I provided them simple steps to getting organized and a 21 day plan to jump start their organizing success. Whether it is organizing your belongings, or managing your paper or time better, the end result will be saving time, money, and space. Who doesn’t want that?

I was able to share some of my favorite products with the audience. Each attendee received a pack of 3M Command™ strips. If you have never tried a Command™ product before, be sure to print out a coupon for one.  Each attendee also received a keychain measuring tape from All Bright Ideas.

This event was sponsored in part by The Heart Care Group. I would like to extend a big thank you to this wonderful full-service practice of 19 cardiologists.  At the end of the day, The Heart Care Group and I have the same goal. We want to reduce our patient’s/client’s stress and give them an opportunity for a long and fulfilling life.

If you attend this wonderful event, please share your organizing successes or struggles. How is your 21-day plan going?