Organizing paperwork without hanging file folders

[mkksmom]

I'm trying to organize the paper work in my house. Incoming mail, bills, medical records, etc.. File folders really don't work for me. I am looking for a system where I can just drop papers in a bin or drawer with a few broad categories. Any suggestions? Pictures help a lot.

[EmbraceLife]

I can't use file cabinets either.

I have a thirty one tote style baskets on a top shelf ... where one is library books, one is incoming mail and a checkbook, one is greeting cards ... and then the next shelf is a different style of totes and baskets and houses medical records, insurance stuff and photos and scrapbooking.

It works for me.  The "clutter" of it is out of sight. 

I have the same type of organization or lack there of in the kids room and in their playroom.

:)

[aratiaw]

Hanging files weren't working for me either. I have embarrassingly large piles of filing to do.

However, I just moved my filing cabinet so it's right next to my desk, and now I don't have to get out of my seat to file something. E.g. pay bill > open drawer > drop bill in file, instead of pay bill > put bill in random place or even 'to file' tray...bill never gets filed. It shouldn't make a difference, but it is working much better already. I just have to catch up on the old piles of filing!