HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR HELOISE: My daughter is a dancer, and her gym bag can smell! I tuck dryer sheets that have been through the dryer once in her bag. This keeps things smelling fresher!
— Hope P., Little Rock
DEAR READERS: It’s a new year, and time to start tackling paper files. We do tend to keep a lot of old financial paperwork (old utility bills, bank statements, credit card statements, etc.) that is not really needed. When you do amass a pile of unneeded paperwork, it should be shredded if it contains personal identifying information. Here are some examples:
Unneeded documents with your birth date, Social Security number and/or signature.
Old medical bills and receipts you don’t need.
Canceled checks and pay stubs not needed for tax purposes or otherwise.
Tax documents and W-2 forms. The IRS says to keep them three to seven years or longer, but there are many guidelines.
Unsolicited credit card offers. If you don’t want them when they arrive, dump them then!
Most importantly, when in doubt, don’t toss important financial documentation! Seek professional advice. Visit the IRS website at irs.gov for the final word.
DEAR HELOISE: I like to keep on hand a supply of unisex gifts to give to somebody who drops over, or who does a favor for me.
These gifts can include coffee mugs, candles, small ceramic pieces, warm socks, popular snacks and teas, and other easy-to-give items. — Margo E., Hollywood, Fla.
DEAR HELOISE: We were in our house for many years and were thinking about selling it. We cleaned the house intensely, getting rid of tons of trash and clutter. When we were done cleaning, painting and redoing the landscaping, we realized the house looked great, and we decided to stay!
— Mary G. in Pittsburgh DEAR READER: And no packing and moving!
DEAR HELOISE: My sister and I made place mats out of the Sunday color comics. We glued our favorites to a piece of cardboard, and wrapped it in clear plastic wrap. Works great, Mom is happy, and we are reading, and laughing, at the table! — Hunter G. in San Antonio
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email Heloise@Heloise.com