Optimal Finance Daily · Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Emily Guy Birken outlines a system for managing paperwork, inspired by David Allen, to prevent late fees and the loss of important documents like checks. The system involves immediately shredding/trashing junk mail, acting on tasks under two minutes, and placing longer tasks in an 'action bin' for weekly processing.
“Organizing your paperwork will end late fees. And the what did I do with that insurance check moments.”
“David Allen, author of the book Getting Things Done, suggests you do one of three things with paper as it comes into your house.”
“For anything that needs more time, place it in your action bin.”