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Debbie Williams is an organizing strategist and founder of the online organizing forum, OrganizedU.com. She is the author of  "Common Sense Organizing" from Champion Press.

Filing

Question: When it comes time to turn in my receipts for my expense report, I always seem to have misplaced some. Or I have it listed on the expensive report, but I can't find the receipt. Many of my expenses are incurred while I am traveling. Any suggestions?
Carrie

Answer: The easiest way to keep your reciepts is to create a home for them and to consistently put them away in the same place each time they are received.

Use a simple paper legal sized envelope from your desk drawer, or purchase a durable vinyl one from the office or discount store. Each time you make a purchase that is business related, log the entry on your expense form, in your planner, or on the back of the envelope. File the reciept in the envelope, and keep it with you.

If you carry a notebook style planner, it's a good idea to use either a zippered plastic sleeve or a manila slotted envelope created especially for expense tracking. If your expenses are logged in a PDA, on your computer, or filled out on a special form at the month's end, jot down some simple notes on the envelope itself, file the receipt inside, and stuff it into your purse or briefcase.

Whatever your method, keep it with you and be consistent! It doesn't need to be fancy to be productive and effective.

Good luck,
Debbie Williams

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