What's a good way to organize paperwork?

What is the best way to get organized with mounds of paperwork, I.e. mail,bills,kids papers, and important documents?

Wrong category...?

That doesn't matter Sailorman220 cut her a break. If you know a good Answer, leave one. Other wise, don't be mean.

dramaqn: I like to use those file keepers, made of paper. They fold out kind of like an accordion if you know which ones I'm referring to. You can get them at Wal-Mart, or most stores, Office max to, though Wal-Mart has better prices. lol
I buy those up, And I have one of those inexpensive 3 shelved plastic, slide-out file cabinets you can buy in the Office essentials portion of most Wal-marts.
I may take one Paper file keeper, and write BILLS: Then I write Electric, Water, Gas bill... on the little sub tabs on the top. Then I just slide them in.
The next paper file folder might be for Work Documents: or PICTURES: The sky is the limit! Then once I fill them, I label the 1st shelve on the file cabinet. (Bills, Appointments,Work Documents,) Etc etc... Then I simply stack the 3 or four ones in that shelf. And then so on and so on, until all of my documents and important paper work are sorted out. Then I always can find them! :-)
Or a Metal file cabinet, with the file folders that have the hook type things on the sides of them. And just hang them, they can slide back and fourth, and suspend on the rods built into the file cabinet. I love it! But the plastic & paper style is less expensive. However, Metal file cabinets and their folders can be used as well.

Go to office max and buy manilla file folders, sharpie pen, and hanging file folders and either a little metal file cabinet or a rolling one, which is what I use. Sit down and stack your papers in front of you with a nice beverage and turn on some music. Go through your papers one at a time. Make a file for each thing, label them.

If it's a receipt, make a receipts file and put it in there.
If it's a certification or license, make a certifications file.
If it's a bill, make a file for what type: phone, water, electricity.
If it's a manual or warranty for your toaster, make a 'manuals' or 'warranties' file.
Here is a short list of the files I have labeled as I look down at them right now.
Auto info
Bank Statements
certifications
Cub Scouts
Credit info
Eyecare
Health Benefits
Housing (lease agreements, etc.)
Court Documents
Pay stubs
receipts
resume
Taxes
menus (from my favorite take out places)
Medical bills
Phone

Segregate everything into a file and make sure your labels are alphabetical.

Every week or two, file your new paperwork.

You'll be amazed at how easy it is once you begin.

Rotate your files on a yearly basis, I color code mine. A different color every year. Easier to find. You are suppossed to keep your records for 7 years. Get a PDA or cell that has alarms or reminders on it. Mine works wonders and I haven't forgotten my kid yet!!