Paperless
For years I wanted to go paperless, but was a bit overwhelmed by the challenge. As has been the case with so much on my sustainable lifestyle journey, I woke up one day ready to conquer another important effort. From that point forward I would commit to paperless administration of my family’s affairs as well as our small business.
The following is what I have learned regarding the essentials of going paperless.
If you do not already have it setup on your computer purchase online cloud storage. Find articles here on cloud backup subscriptions. BackBlaze is touted as the front runner, but I have successfully used Carbonite for Mac.
Instead of hitting PRINT, select Save as PDF and begin saving the documents instead of printing them.
Install a mobile scanner on your phone. I installed Scanbot - the scans are made into pdfs, easy to share by email, fax and text. Another benefit of this app is the space it saves on your desk.
An e-signature tool will be necessary for electronically signing documents without printing them. The e-signature tools recommended would be: Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Reader, Docusign, or MacOS Preview.
Get a file syncing and file-sharing service, such as Google Drive. This allows you to access your files from multiple devices and computers.
Track your online expenses with software like Quicken or Mint.
Sign up for e-billing and autopay options. No more stamps, writing checks or possible late payment fees, etc.
Sign up for e-statements, most banks and merchants are happy to have you switch to e-statements and some even offer promotions.
Adopt an electronic calendar that syncs with your phone and computer.
For any paper that is still accumulated, shredders are highly recommended for recycling with added security.
ARTICLES | BLOGS | RESOURCES
5 Apps You Need to Go Paperless | Jill Dufffy | PC Magazine | June 3rd, 2019
Gear for a Paperless Home Office | Erica Ogg | Wirecutter | February 11th, 2019
The Best Mobile Scanning Apps | Ben Keough | Wirecutter | June 6th, 2019
The Best Online Cloud Backup Service | Joe Kissell | Wirecutter | March 12th, 2019
Paperless and plastic-free home office supplies.