Shred it and forget it

Do you own a paper shredder?  Every house should have one unless you are willing to tear your personal papers into itsy bitsy pieces or burn your papers.

Identity theft is very real.  Once your identity is stolen, it’s difficult and costly to restore your credit and reputation.  I’d like to help you protect your identity with a few shredding tips.

  • Purchase the best shredder your budget allows.  In other words…..you get what you pay for.
  • Don’t overload your shredder.  A piece of paper folded into thirds will count as 3 sheets unless you unfold it.
  • Just because your shredder is labeled “5 sheet capacity”, don’t believe it.  I usually subtract 3 sheets from the shredders maximum capacity, to be safe.
  • Do not shred address labels.  Based on my own experiences–it becomes one sticky mess.
  • If you notice a burning smell coming from you shredder, it’s time to let it rest for a couple of hours.  Same goes if you notice is suddenly stops working.
  • Besides feeding your shredder paper, and in some cases credit cards and CD’s, feed it a little oil to keep it working properly.  Check your office supply store for shredder oil or sheets of paper that are pre-oiled (seriously they do exist).

Now that you have the care and feeding of your shredder down let’s move onto…..What-Papers-Should-You-Shred!

  • Anything that may ruin your reputation….need I say more?

Papers with:

  • Any of your account numbers
  • Social Security numbers
  • Your birth date
  • Your medical record numbers
  • Pre-approved credit card offers
  • Your signature

If you want to take it a step further then also shred:

  • Anything with your address

Do you own a shredder?  If you don’t, consider purchasing one this month.

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