Keep or toss?

With so many documents to keep track of, it may be difficult to determine which are safe to throw away and which to hold on to. Here are some helpful tips:

• Bank statements: Okay to destroy after one year, unless you need them for tax purposes. Online Banking can help reduce the paper pile up.
• Utility bills: Throw out (unless needed for tax purposes).
• Tax records: Destroy after six years.
• Insurance records: Keep for the life of your policy.
• Life documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, diploma, divorce decree, military records): Store your birth or marriage certificates, diploma, divorce decree, or military records in a safe deposit box indefinitely. Check box availability at a nearby North Shore Bank office.
• Homeowner records (deed and title): Do not throw away.
• Receipts for major purchases: Keep as long as you own the item.

Guard yourself against identity theft

Learn more about identity theft protection and how to avoid common scams.