It can be a struggle to determine whether to keep or recycle certain papers. So, I’ve devised a list of questions that will help you. Answer the following questions honestly and objectively. If your answer is no to 5 or more questions it’s time to recycle or shred that paper.

• Do you have a specific use for this paper?
• Does this paper hold current and up-to-date information?
• Did you request this information?
• Will this paper help you complete a project you’re working on now?
• Are there tax, legal, or insurance reasons to keep this paper?
• Is this information important to your life right now?
• Is this paper referred to often?
• Can this information be obtained elsewhere or again if needed?
• Would getting rid of this paper make your life more difficult?