Setting up a record-keeping system is easily done. Office supply stores have a variety of folders and envelopes available that help separate papers into categories. Many people have found colored folders to be helpful. Expandable file folders that hold all your papers in one place can be very useful, especially when you want to take your records with you to a lawyer. It is especially important to know what Medicare does and does not cover.
Many people never think of using a safe-deposit box until they have a fire or burglary.
Others rent the largest box available from their bank and pack it full of documents, memorabilia, keepsakes, and photographs. These boxes can often hold most of the documents a single person might accumulate, perhaps even the average couple's valuable papers. However, if you would like to store more than just documents, you might want to consider some of the larger-size boxes. These are often rented by individuals who have various collectibles they want to protect or who travel and do not want to leave valuables at home. Safe-deposit boxes are ideal for storing the documents shown in dark lettering on this page.