Paper Triage Checklist

KickOutClutter

Paper Triage Checklist

Sort paper fast into Action, File, or Recycle/Shred. Build a simple mail station and keep a short weekly admin block.

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⏱️ Total: 60–90 minutes (in sprints)📬 Ideal near your mail drop zone

Supplies

  • Three bins/folders: Action (Do/Pay), File (Keep), Recycle/Shred
  • Letter tray or 3-slot vertical sorter
  • Labels/marker, stapler, paper clips
  • Shredder or shredding bag
  • File folders: Bills, Taxes, Medical, Home, Auto, Insurance, School, Receipts (current year), Manuals

Quick Rules

Handle paper once: sort to Action / File / Recycle-Shred immediately. Open envelopes, ditch inserts, and keep only what serves a purpose.
  • Digitize when useful; go paperless for bills/statements.
  • Redact or shred anything with personal info.

1) Clear & Stage (5 min)

2) Quick Triage (10–15 min)

3) Action Pile (10–20 min)

4) Bills & Money (10–15 min)

5) Taxes (10–15 min)

6) Medical & Benefits (10–15 min)

7) Home / Auto / Manuals (10–15 min)

8) Kids / School (10–15 min)

9) Shred / Recycle (5–10 min)

10) Mail Station & Maintenance (5–10 min)

Tip: Keep a small “Review” stack capped at ten. If it grows, schedule a 15-minute catch-up.