Declutter and Protect: What to Shred and When
If you’re wondering what you can put in a shred bin, you’re not alone. Whether you’re organizing your home office or maintaining compliance at work, knowing what to shred can help protect your identity and free up space.
How Long Should You Keep Documents?
Understanding document retention is the first step to knowing what to shred. Here’s a quick guide:
Keep for 1 Year:
- Utility bills
- Monthly bank and credit card statements
- Pay stubs (until W-2 or tax return is reconciled)
Keep for 7 Years:
- Tax returns and supporting documents
- Proof of deductions (receipts, canceled checks, 1099s)
Keep Permanently:
- Birth certificates, Social Security cards, and passports
- Marriage and divorce records
- Property deeds and mortgage documents
- Investment records for assets you still own
Why Shredding Matters
Shredding isn’t just about cleaning up, it’s a critical step in protecting sensitive information.
Prevent Identity Theft: Shredding prevents personal and financial data from falling into the wrong hands.
Reduce Clutter: Secure shredding frees up valuable space at home or work.
Ensure Privacy: Medical, financial, and personal information stays confidential.
Stay Compliant: Even individuals must protect data under privacy regulations. Documents like old mail and medical records contain sensitive info that should be securely destroyed.
What to Shred: A Quick Checklist
Personal Information:
- Old bills and statements
- Medical records and prescription labels
- Tax documents older than seven years
Financial Records:
- Expired credit/debit cards
- Paid-off loan documents
- Canceled checks
Mail & Miscellaneous:
- Pre-approved credit offers
- Mail with your name and address
Beyond Paper:
- CDs, DVDs with personal or company data
- Hard drives (ask us about certified destruction services)
- Branded products with outdated contact info or logos
What Goes in a CIIM Shred Bin?
OK to Shred:
- Office paper, business documents
- Folders, notepads (including spiral bound)
- Magazines, newsprint, soft-bound publications (< 2" thick)
- Paper with staples, paper clips, rubber bands, small binder clips
Not Accepted in Shred Bins:
- Trash, plastic, styrofoam, soda cans
- CDs, DVDs, tapes, x-rays, laminates
- Corrugated cardboard
- Hard-bound books, 3-ring binders
- Large metal objects, large binder clips