YOUR PERMANENT FILE

Keep the deed to your home,your mortgage agreement and other papers from the closing, such as surveys and title guarantees, in a permanent file or safe deposit box.

Maintain a permanent file of the costs of all major improvements, additions, and alterations to your home. These documented costs can help reduce your taxes if you sell the house at a profit later on.

wills, powers of attorney, and life insurance policies should also be in your permanent file. Be sure to discard expired life insurance policies and superseded will and powers of attorney.

Saave all your children's report cards and school and college records in a permanent file. The kids will appreciate these later in life.