It’s that time of year again.  We take the decorations down and look forward to some quiet evenings of doing nothing.

 

But it doesn’t last.  April 15^th is coming and we have to get all of our records in order so we can do the tax returns.   And for many of us, we vow once again that this is the year when we’ll keep everything up to date and in one place so next year we won’t have to search through all the files, boxes, envelopes and piles where we stashed the receipts, statements and other documents we need so we can take all the deductions we are entitled to.

 

 

Well, for one thing, it might actually be harder to stay organized.  Many of us are getting statements electronically, so instead of searching for paper, we log onto a website and download or print what we need.  That could help if everything were digital, but now instead of just sifting through paper files, we also have to sift through emails and websites.  We need to remember account names and passwords, or spend time resetting them.

 

That’s why your ASBA has worked with SafelyFiled to develop a solution to the problem of trying to keep paper and digital documents and records organized in one system.  Check out ASBASafe.  You get a 20% discount as an ASBA member.  Also take advantage of the free checklists and articles.  Take special note of the article on Digital Assets.  Talk about a Brave New World!  These articles and checklists can help you stay organized for years to come.

 

It’s not just for taxes.  But ASBASafe isn’t just about taxes.  It is designed by seniors (yes- by seniors with an internet company!) who have put children through college and still take care of elderly parents.  Their life experience is built into ASBASafe, so we know it will be unlike anything else you’ve seen.  Here are just a few of the life situations ASBASafe was designed for.

 

Elderly parents.  ASBASafe helps keep all their documents, like wills, living wills, trusts and insurance policies in order.  You can even use ASBASafe to send yourself automatic reminders on when bills are due or taxes need to be paid.  And if your siblings help with your parents, they can participate at no additional cost.

 

So you don’t lose track of your assets.  If you are worried that your spouse or kids won’t be able to find your critical documents, like wills, insurance policies and bank statements, especially those your receive electronically, ASBASafe makes sure they can find them.  For your accounts that send you paper statements, you can easily record where you’ve put the originals.  No need to change the filing system you’ve been using for years.  ASBASafe adapts to you.

 

And if you are already organized.  ASBASafe takes your organization to the next level.  It combines your paper and digital files into one system that is intuitive and better than anything else on the market.

 

Security is number one.  Finally, ASBASafe’s security it top notch.  It was designed by a computer security expert who built the security in first and then added the rest of the system afterwards.  With bank-level security, it’s more secure than your own computer or smartphone.  And with copies of your critical documents out of your home, they are safe from flood fire and natural disaster. 

 

 

The world isn’t going to go backwards.  Electronic statements and digital documents are here to stay.  Get your papers and digital documents organized, if not for yourself and your spouse, then for your children.  If any thing happens to you, they will likely have to take charge.  Don’t put them through the pain of going through all your stuff, trying to find all your assets and insurance policies.  Don’t put them through the hassle of going through your web browsing history or email inbox, trying to locate online accounts.  And let them know what you’re doing.  Not only will they appreciate it, they may even volunteer to help.

 

You’ve lived your life trying to make things a bit easier for your children than it was for you.  Why stop now?