Everyone knows you have to shred critical documents that have identifying information on them. Here are a few simple easy tips to organize and protect your important financial information AND your identity.

1. Organize your credit cards (as well as any other cards you have including gift cards) using a binder and plastic trading card pages (Avery makes them). Insert each card into the card holder pages according to type. Use post-it notes to include notes such as what the interest rate is, etc. but NOT PIN Numbers! That way you can see all your cards at a glance and know if any are missing. TIP: Don't label the binder as credit cards - give it a code name and keep it in a secure, locked place.
2. If you must write down your passwords, never write down the real word!!! Establish a code system. For example, if you use the word "neat" write down n*t. Use any kind of code system like that you can remember. If you use variations of the same word, vary the code for each - so "neat123" would become "ne*1". Another type of code system you could use is: if you use your sister's name, write her birthday - only you will know it's really her name.
3. If you have multiple credit cards, only carry one with you.
4. Make a copy of all the contents of your wallet, and update it regularly. (Try programming a recurring reminder into your calendar or any electronic reminder tool you use. I use Outlook for all my reminders.) If your wallet is stolen, you'll able to immediately alert all the relevant parties in case of potential identify theft.
5. Don't carry your social security card in your wallet.
6. Always use the same card for all online purchases. That way it if there is a problem, you only have to cancel one card.

© 2006 Ariane Benefit, Neat Living All rights reserved.