Sample issue

Hi there,

This issue's ten-minute task: match your pay stubs

Pull out last year's pay stubs and your W-2. Check that the year-end totals on your last stub match the W-2. If they do, the stubs have done their job: shred them. If something doesn't match, ask your employer's payroll team before you file.

More in Bank statements, pay stubs and bills.

Safe to shred

Pre-approved credit card offers. They can be used to apply for credit in your name, so shred rather than recycle them. You can also opt out of most of them through the credit bureaus' official opt-out service.

Reader question

"Should I keep my will in my safe deposit box?" Ask your attorney. A will may be needed when the box is hard to get into, so many people keep the original with their attorney or in a home safe, and a copy in the box. See Home safe or safe deposit box?

Happy sorting,
Dime Keepers