Get Organized For Summer Send Off
Don't wait until the last minute

Getting your kids ready for camp or a teen program should be fun, but sometimes scheduling doctors appointments, filling out forms, shopping, packing, shipping and planning for visiting day can leave even the most organized family feeling like they need a vacation.

Here are some helpful tips to make getting ready stress-free:

• Make appointments with doctors' and dentists now
  
  
• Apply for your child's passport now if he/she is going abroad. For passport questions visit the National Passport Information Center
  
  
• Plan a fun family vacation around visiting day
  Keep your camp shopping list with you at all times
  
  
• Keep in mind that if you are too busy to get it all done in time, there are summer planning experts ready willing and able to help you with shopping, organizing, packing, trip planning and more.

For more information contact:

Jill Tipograph
Director
Everything Summer
866.995.1122 (toll free)
www.everythingsummer.com

Does your wardrobe need spring cleaning?
Fine tune your clothing collection

There's no better way to welcome in the Spring than by doing a little Spring cleaning. While many are focusing on getting out the lawn chairs and sweeping out the garage, this is also the perfect time to reorganize your closets and add a sparkle to your wardrobe. Whether you're moving seasonal clothes from one closet to the next or simply rearranging clothes within a closet so that they are more accessible, this is a great opportunity to fine tune your clothing collection.

The first step is to purge your wardrobe of all clothing that fits the following descriptions:

1. Haven't worn in one year
2. You don't feel great wearing it
3. Uncomfortable
4. Stained
5. "Out of Style"

Next, set-up a system of organization. Try to keep similar clothing pieces together so that when looking for a shirt, for example, you know where all of your shirts are kept.

The final step, once your wardrobe has been purged and reorganized, is to identify where the voids are in your clothing collection. Make a shopping plan for yourself so that when you go shopping, you know what you need.

One last hint for Spring 2005, buy something metallic, you'll love it!

For more about how to assess your wardrobe and be stylish for Spring, contact:

Bonni Stanley
Get It Together
(914) 234-4406
(914) 403-8351

To set up you own system, here's what you need to list for each tax year:

• The date of the event or contribution (this
  helps you find the cancelled check or receipt
  if you need)
  
• The amount of the contribution
  (cash or otherwise)
  
• The name, address and employee identification number (EIN) of the organization you
  contributed to
  
• The amount that is tax deductable

Download free a copy of our Charitable Contributions page if you don't have the time to make up your own. It's always a good idea to save receipts confirming how much you donated and who it went to. If you don't have a filing system set up, consider stapling or taping the receipts to the back of the Charitable Contributionssheet. By recording this information, you won't miss even a $10 donation, and it won't take you long to pull it all together for whoever is preparing your tax returns.

Modular storage is the way to go primarily because it can be easily adjusted after installation to meet your family's every-changing needs with kids toys, sports gear, garden tools, cleaning supplies, automotive supplies, lawn fertilizer and more. Many of these modular units utilize a grid type wall system with interchangeable hooks, baskets, brackets and cabinets that can hold a tremendous amount of weight.

Solutions range in price depending on size, functionality, adjustability and strength. Custom built/designer systems can cost thousands of dollars, which is more than the basic garage system consisting of shelving units or multi-tool holders, but, they offer much greater versatility and strength for the money.

Key points to remember when buying garage storage systems are:

• Adequate strength for holding heavy items
  
• Easily adjustable after installation
  
• Versatile unit sizes and functions
  
• Installation cost (sometimes you can save money by installing yourself)
  
• Remember, think long-term when organizing the garage because of the different items you are likely to accumulate over time.

For more information contact
Joel Goron
Vice President, Business Development
Hang It All Garage Systems
301.509.6778
www.hang-it-all.com
sales@hang-it-all.com

Mention Family Facts and get 10% off of your next order with Hang It All! They ship everywhere.

Easy Bill Paying and Filing System
Plus tips on keeping it simple

Start off the new year with an easy filing system so your bills don't end up in a pile, or worse yet, get misplaced.

Using an alphabetical filing system is the simplest way and takes the least amount of time to set up and utilize. [i.e. ATT statements go under A; Verizon statements go under (V)].

The quickest way to get started is to label files A through Z for a filing cabinet or a portable pendaflex. Look for pre-printed A-Z pendaflex folders in stores. Then after paying the bills, simply file the statements by droping them in the appropriate alphabetical slot. Staple multiple statement pages together for quick and easy reference.

If alphabetical filing doesn't work for you, try labeling the files by vendor name and then placing them alphabetically in a filing cabinet.

The key is to know where to put the statements when you're done and where to look for them when you need them.

Quick tips on bill paying

• Pick one or two days each month to pay bills and stick to it. Don't pay each bill as it arrives.
  
• Designate a place for the bills to go when they arrive. I suggest a basket on your desk where you can keep your checkbook, stamps, pens and a calculator. I don't recommend putting the bills in a drawer or cabinet, because out of sight can lead to out of mind.
  
• Immediately after paying the bills, file the statements in the system that works best for you. Make it part of the bill paying process.
  
• Throw out old statements that are just cluttering your filing system. If it's 2 years or older, toss it. I suggest keeping one year's worth so you can compare prices to the year prior and always have enough information for a loan or mortgage.

What to do with your Holiday Cards in January...
To make the memories last

Enjoy the holiday cards from family and friends each holiday season, but don't know what to do with them after the season? Hate throwing them out, but don't need any more clutter in the house? Well, here are two quick tips to make them last.

1. File alphabetically in a portable pendaflex file folder. Again simply drop them in the designated spot and then put the file folder away for a year, or
2. File chronologically in picture albums (if you have the time) or shoe boxes. Make sure you label the album or boxes by the year. Keep this up year after year and you'll have fun looking back and seeing how everyone's changed over the years.
   

Tax Preparation Tips
What you need to prepare a tax return

Tax time is right around the corner. Whether you file your own taxes, or have an expert help you, use these tips created by a professional CPA to save preparation time and ensure that you take all your deductions!

• Make sure you have 1099 forms for all income earned during the tax year.
  
  
• Compare W2 forms to final pay stubs to make sure earnings are correct and you don't pay extra taxes.
  
  
• Consider making a contribution to appropriate retirement accounts (such as IRA and Roth) before April 15th. Some retirement accounts (such as Keogh) must be set up by December 31st of the tax year, so keep that in mind for next year.
  
  
• Look through cancelled checks for charitable deductions or medical expenses.
  
  
• Review year-end credit card statements for tax deductible items not paid for by a check.

Now is also a great time to set up a tax preperation system for next year. Start with either file folders for a filing cabinet or tabs, with folders inbetween, for a 3-ring binder (1.5" binder is all you need) and label each as follows:

• Deductions - Keep receipts for all deductions (business or personal).
  
  
• W2 and K1
  
  
• Charitable Contributions -Keep an ongoing list throughout the year of all charitable contributions. Everytime you donate clothing, give money, attend a charity event, etc.. jot it down and keep all the receipts.
  
  
• Securities Transactions- Keep all transaction confirmations, especially the "buy" confirmation that details your purchase cost.
  
  
• 1099 and 1099G Statements

With this new system, you will know where to put important tax information when it comes into the house and more importantly you will know where to find the information when you need it. This system will save you time and might even save you money, especially if you save every receipt that could be a deduction or a charitable donation.

For more information, contact our expert:

Jeff Feinman
DDK and Company, LLP
Certified Public accountant
Tel: 212.997.0600
Email: jfeinman@ddkcpas.com
website: www.ddkcpas.com

Consolidate Your Financial Documents
Tips on what to save and how to organize it.

As important as it is to organize monthly billing, it is equally essential to systematize financial documents. Given that we are all bombarded with statements and paperwork on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis, organization is a must. With a system in place you are less likely to misplace important documents, which causes aggravation, wasted time, and can even cost you money to replace.

We asked Certified Financial Planner, Todd Levy, what financial documents should every family keep? And tips on how to make them easily accessible.

What To Keep:

• Income Tax Returns
  
• Paycheck Stubs
  
• Mortgage Statements
  
• Investment Statements (for each account)
  
• Wills and Trusts
  
• Insurance Policies (homeowners, auto, life, disability and medical)
  
• Company Provided Group Benefits

How To Keep It:
Keep all these documents together in a binder or filing system. Have a tab or label for each of the 7 items listed above. If using a binder system, use pocket folders to eliminate the extra task of 3-hole punching those documents that do not arrive already 3-hole punched.
Dont confuse these documents with bills. For example your insurance bill should be filed with bills. (see Easy Bill Paying Tips in the January newsletter) and your insurance policies should be kept with the financial information.
Make sure you and your spouse know where the financial information binder or file is. If you need to use any of the documents to refinance your mortgage or in case of sudden illness, you won't be scrambling to find what you need.
If overseeing the care of an elder family member, organize their documents the same way, in case you need to access it on their behalf.

Levy adds that it is important to review all your financial information with a financial planner on an annual basis to make sure you are meeting the ever-changing needs of your family. For more information, contact our expert at:

Todd Levy
Certified Financial Planner
Tel: 914.288.8909
Email: tlevy@strat4wealth

Warranties and Manuals: Save or Not To Save?
How not to let them clutter your drawers.

By now, you've sorted through your holiday gifts and probably made most of you returns. But what did you do with all the warranty and manual information that came with so many toys and household gifts?

Have you been stuffing them into desk or kitchen drawers? Or worse, throwing them out? It's important to keep warranties and manuals because they can save you time and money, but don't waste valuable drawer space on them. Follow these 4 simple steps to store these valuable pieces of paper out of sight, but not out of mind:

Clip together the manual with the warranty with a staple, rubber band or bullet clip for easy access.
Put all warranties and manuals in a large shoe box or plastic bin. This bin does not have to be clear because you're not going to recognize one from another by peering in from the outside.
Clearly label the box ..."Warranties and Manuals"
Store the box in a closet, basement, or attic, just remember where you stored it! Everytime a warranty or manual comes into the house, you know where to put it. And, when you need it, you will know where to get it.
TIP: Send in registration forms so that you are in the company's database for recalls and saftey issues.

Who hasn't had a non-stick frying pan scratch before the warranty ran out or a toy that needed a replacement part right away?

Keeping all the warranties and manuals together like this, you merely have to sort through one box rather than search the entire house to get the refund or replacement you are rightfully owed.

Easy Bill Paying and Filing System
Plus tips on keeping it simple

Start off the new year with an easy filing system so your bills don't end up in a pile, or worse yet, get misplaced.

Using an alphabetical filing system is the simplest way and takes the least amount of time to set up and utilize. [i.e. ATT statements go under A; Verizon statements go under (V)].

The quickest way to get started is to label files A through Z for a filing cabinet or a portable pendaflex. Look for pre-printed A-Z pendaflex folders in stores. Then after paying the bills, simply file the statements by droping them in the appropriate alphabetical slot. Staple multiple statement pages together for quick and easy reference.

If alphabetical filing doesn't work for you, try labeling the files by vendor name and then placing them alphabetically in a filing cabinet.

The key is to know where to put the statements when you're done and where to look for them when you need them.

Quick tips on bill paying

• Pick one or two days each month to pay bills and stick to it. Don't pay each bill as it arrives.
  
• Designate a place for the bills to go when they arrive. I suggest a basket on your desk where you can keep your checkbook, stamps, pens and a calculator. I don't recommend putting the bills in a drawer or cabinet, because out of sight can lead to out of mind.
  
• Immediately after paying the bills, file the statements in the system that works best for you. Make it part of the bill paying process.
  
• Throw out old statements that are just cluttering your filing system. If it's 2 years or older, toss it. I suggest keeping one year's worth so you can compare prices to the year prior and always have enough information for a loan or mortgage.

Organize A Season of Giving:
One Closet At A Time
Sort Through Closets, Donate and Make Room To Receive

Clothes and household items are always welcomed by charities such as Goodwill and Big Brother/Big Sister, but coats are needed in cold weather climates now! Donate these items, and you'll benefit in more ways than one. You'll benefit by:

• giving to those in need when they need it most
• getting rid of what you don't need... cleaning out
• making room for receiving new
• receiving a tax benefit (if donated by 12/31/04)

Here's how to start:

1. Set aside a good amount of time so you can complete the project (approximately 2 hours). A project like this gets messy before it gets orderly and there's nothing worse than having to stop in the middle.
2. Pick one closet. Don't try to take on too much at one time. Realistically you can complete one closet in an hour or two, but not every closet in the house.
3. Take everything out of the closet and sort the items into piles by cateogry. You must have a "throw out" and a "donate" pile, other piles could be by "size", "type", or "season". Don't be afraid to throw items out, especially those you haven't used in a year.
4. Once you've completed the sorting, decide how and when you're going to use the items that are going back into the closet. Do these items need to be stored for another season? Do these items need to be accessible now?
5. Knowing what's going back into the closet, decide if you need to buy organizing accessories like clear bins for storage, or stacking drawers for hats/mits, beach toys or sports items, or more hangers etc... It's better to buy organizing accessories after seeing what you need first so that you can get the right size and shape. You might not even need anything after you clean out what you don't need.
6. Place the items you are donating in a large bag and put the bag in the car right away so it doesn't sit around the house collecting dust and so you deliver the items before 12/31/04 for your tax credit.
7. Pat yourself on the back and enjoy your cleaned out, newly organized space

Make a Pre-Travel Check List
Download the Travel Organizer page for FREE

If you're traveling this holiday season, you'll want to make a list of things to do before you go -- so you don't forget to stop the newspaper or call the kennel. Follow these simple steps, but start at least one week before you leave to allow enough time to get it all done:

• Make a list of things to do before you leave for vacation, from watering the plants to canceling the newspaper to getting a manicure.
  
• Schedule your "to-do's" ahead of time! Schedule time on your calendar to accomplish your "to-dos", even if it's a phone call you have to make, and start at least one week before you leave. For example, On Monday between 9-9:30am call the kennel, the alarm company and the newspaper company. Tuesday afternoon go to the bank near the dance studio, while your daughter's at dance. Pack on Thursday while the kids are in school. Friday morning confirm all reservations and get seat assignments for the plane (this is usually done 24 hours prior to departure). Scheduling everything you have to do allows you to fit your errands into your schedule, rather than fit your schedule into your errands, which increases stress. Avoid bringing unnecessary stress into your life, and your vacation, by planning ahead.
  
• Make a list of the things you will need access to at all times, such as, diapers/wipes, medicine (you can bet at least one child will get sick during vacation), snacks, money and travel documents. Pack these items in a small bag so you can keep them with you at all times and pack this bag a day or two ahead of time. If you pack this bag last minute, or the morning before you leave, you run the risk of leaving something behind. If your child needs a decongestant on the plane because his/her ears are hurting or needs a snack because your delayed on the plane for hours, you'll be glad you took the time to make the list and pack the bag ahead of time.
  
• Make a list of pertinent travel information including confirmation numbers, late check in times and telephone numbers. Keep this information with you at all times because if you run into delays or need to alter your plans in any way, you will have everything you need handy to avoid unnecessary aggrivation.

TIP: If you're a member of the AAA club, jot down the account number or make sure the card is in your wallet because not only will they help in an auto emergency but they also offer many discounts with hotels and car rentals.
TIP: It's always a good idea to leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member, in the event of an emergency.
TIP: If passports are needed bring a copy of everyone's passports and license's for peace of mind.

Post a Wish List
It's not just for the kids

Are your kids being naughty or nice? Want to get them what they really want, but can't keep track of what it was they really wanted? Well, start a wish list for everyone. Then, carry the wish lists with you when you shop. Here are some tips to get started...

• Put each child's name on the top of a sheet of paper and number from 1 to 10. Have each child fill out his/her own wish list. Add ideas that you overhear your children talk about with their siblings and friends. Ask them to prioritize their list.
  
• Staple coupons and/or ideas from catalogs to the lists so you have everything in one place when you're ready to purchase.
  
• Keep the lists in a central location (post on a bulletin board or refrigerator) so the kids can edit as much as they want on their own. You know their minds will change a million times between now and holiday time.

A child's wish list can be used as a guide for birthday gifts throughout the year and remember wish lists are not just for the children, they come in handy for promotions, anniversaries, mother's day, father's day and more.

If you dont have time to create your own "Wish List", purchase ours.

For a limited time, get 4 Wish Lists for $1

Here's how to create your own 4-Day Planner:

• Make a chart with 5 columns and 10 rows (we chose a random number, you might need more, you might need less).
  
• Label the columns, starting from the left: Items, Day 4, Day 3, Day 2, Day 1
  
• List all the food you are going to prepare in column one under "Items" and use a different row for each item. You can break up a dish into different items if it's prepared over time.
  
• Then schedule the preparation needed for each food item on the appropriate day. (ie. purchase, prepare, defrost, place an order, pick up an order, etc.)
  
  For example: If the item is a turkey, you might want to buy it 2 days ahead, and cook it 1 day ahead so all you have to do is warm it up the day you entertain.

We recommend setting the table, selecting the serving pieces and setting up the bar a few days prior to the main event.

If you have a lot of cooking to do and you have long grocery lists, we suggest creating the lists by category (ie fruits, canned goods, meats, diary items, etc...) and writing the categories in the same order the grocery store is laid out.

This type of grocery list keeps you focused, reduces the number of forgotten items and eliminates wasted time running around the isles picking up overlooked items.

If you don't want to create one yourself, you can buy a Family Facts Menu and Shopping Planner for $10 (50 sheets in a pad, 8.5x11)

Menu and Shopping Planner

Plan on hosting a party this holiday season? If you organize it right the first time, you can save time preparing and keeping track of guests, gifts, menus and more. A well formatted list is essential and can be used again and again. Follow these simple column guidelines and create your own list:

• 1st Column: names of everyone invited
• 2nd Column: Mailing Address
• 3rd Column: Email Address
• 4th Column: Telephone Number
• 5th Column: RSVP ? (yes or no)
• 6th Column: Gifts Received
• 7th Column: Thank you's written (yes or no)

On the bottom or the back side, keep a record of everything you served, flowers, party favors, and more. Store your Party Invitation List in a pocket folder or a sheet protector with pictures and mementos from the party and you will have a keepsake for years to come, as well as a reference of who attended, what you served, the decorations and so on.
The Party Invitation List that comes in the "Party" section of the Family Life Organizer is now on sale, see the link below.

For a limited time, get 4 Party Invitation Lists for $1.

Schedule Ahead for HolidayCards
How to get them signed, sealed and delivered on time

You might be thinking . . . holiday cards, now??? Believe it or not, it's a good idea to start in October for two reasons. One, October is when you find the "early bird" discounts, and two, getting holiday cards out is a process that could take up to 5 weeks. Here are 4 simple steps to follow to have your cards signed, sealed and delivered on time...

1. Get Photo: If you are using a photo in your holiday card choose it or take it NOW. Everything always takes more time than we think it should, it's just the law of busy families.
2. Order Cards: Not only are there discounts and special offers to be had, like free envelopes, but you get the best selection to choose from in October.
3. Prepare Mailing Lists: If using an existing list, take time to review and update. If starting from scratch, start with categories like work friends, kids' friends, neighbors, etc...
4. Mail: Set aside time on your calendar to address envelopes or print labels. Buy stamps ahead of time to avoid long lines at the post office. Remember you can buy stamps at grocery stores or order them online from the USPS. As a guideline, try to mail your holiday cards 10 days before you want the cards to arrive, keeping in mind that the closer to the holidays -- the longer it takes.

For more information about mail, stamps, delivery and more check out the USPS website United States Postal Service

Shop til you drop
Save those receipts
School supplies, office supplies, clothes, shoes, furniture
and home decor are just some of the things we buy in the fall. But, inevitably some items will need to be returned which is why it is a good idea to save receipts.

• For time-sensitive returns, record the expiration dates on your calendar.
  
  
• Keep local purchase receipts with you for spontaneous store visits.
  
  
• If you are returning by mail, keep a copy of the receipt and make a note in your calendar to check your next month's credit card bill for the credit.

Get Back To School
Get Organized Ahead Of The Class
Feeling inundated by back-to-school forms and information?

Sort through the clutter now and you are sure to be ahead of the class. Just follow our Family Life Organizer time-saving tips:

• Enter important dates from your "school" calendar, such as school closings, conferences, standardized tests, and more into a master calendar.
  
  
• Keep copies of emergency dismissal and evacuation forms because you never know when disaster will strike if there is an emergency you will be prepared.
  
  
• Keep class phone lists and other frequently handled forms in sheet protectors so they remain clean and readable throughout the year.
  
  
• For quick reference, keep a list of important names, dates and phone numbers for your children's after- school activities.
  
  
• Keep an ongong record of your children's medical information from Immunizations to ear infections. Don't rely on the doctor's office to complete simple forms in a timely manner for either school or camp.
  
  
• Program the school's telephone number and the bus company's telephone number into your cell phone. You will be happy you did -- the day you're late for the bus.

Organization Can Minimize Your Risk
Of Credit Card Theft
Protect Your Identity
One of the ways to reduce your risk of identity theft -the number one consumer fraud in the nation- is to keep records of all your credit cards and bank cards in a safe place. If you lose your wallet or identity theft is suspected, immediate action is critical. This is why the Family Life Organizer offers a Security Page, designed to give you peace of mind and reduce stress in times of crises. The Security Page keeps all the necessary account numbers and toll-free telephone numbers in one place so you can identify the missing cards and report them immediately. It takes minutes to protect yourself with the Security Page. Learn to identify the red flags of identity theft and more ways to protect yourself in "Identity Theft Hits Home" by Debra Hand.
Read the full story by Debra Hand

Got A Minute, Get Summer Activities Planned
While Getting Organized For The Fall!
Thinking about spending some down time this summer to get things in order for the fall. Don't dread it! No need to set aside a whole day out of the sun and fun! Here are two quick tips you can use to get a head start: Pick up Summer Reading lists from your local library. These lists are great references when it's time for school book club purchases and also for buying fabulous age appropriate books as birthday gifts. Store the summer reading lists in either the School & Camp tab pocket or in the Party tab pocket (sold separately). Another tip is to collect information about what's going on around town from local parenting publications and websites and store this information in the Activity section. Most venues that offer summer activities, also offer programs year-round. Ask for a copy of their calendar of events and mark your favorites down on the Favorite Family Activities page. You'd be surprised how helpful it is to have this information at your fingertips when the cold or rainy days of winter set in.

Time-Saving Travel Tip
Save Your Vacation Packing List
Catching up with an old friend, I was reminded of a great time saving travel tip. Frazzled from having to pack up her entire family and dog for a 2-week summer vacation, my friend jokingly confided that packing up last minute items delayed her last vacation departure more than two hours. Even then, she forgot her daughter's swim floaty and numerous other essentials!! After we had a laugh about all the chaos and fun that family vacations bring, I offered up a solution--a vacation packing list! Since she already started a list to remind herself of what to pack this year, I suggested that she copy it onto an official packing list that she could keep in her Family Life Organizer. Using two columns: one side for things you can pack ahead of time and can be without for a few days, and the other for items you can't be without and should have with you at all times, such as money, passports, medicines, special toys, snacks. It's a great time saving tip, and it works year after year.