Paperwork

[tiggerblue10]

I've spent the last 2 days going through all my paperwork dating back 7/8 years, couple of bits even before that, and I've ended up with 5 carrier bags full. I've shredded all stuff with bank details like statements, credit card bills etc, but should I shred receipts, phone bills, mobile bills etc? I just want to put it all in the recycling bin but my mum says I should shred it all.

[EvianBaby]

Yeah, you should destroy anything with your personal details on. I'm not one to fuss over this sort of thing but there are some very clever scammers out there these days. You could always just chuck it on a bonfire. Much quicker than sitting at the shredder for 7 years worth of paperwork.

[paddywak]

If it's got ANYTHING that could lead back to you shred it, numbers names bar codes anything. if in doubt shred it

[boxtops]

Shred EVERYTHING tigger - your phone bills have your name, address, and telephone number on - receipts will have the last 4 digits of your bank card. Shred the lot - the recycling bin is a great place for identity thieves. Setting fire to it would be a nice idea though!

[tiggerblue10]

Looks like its back to the shredding then! Lol

[ummmm]

Burn it....much quicker.

[tiggerblue10]

I would burn it if I could but I don't have anything to burn it in.

[tiggerblue10]

I've had to stop shredding as there is a funny burning smell coming from the shredder and its hot. I'm giving it a break.

[MarkRae]

Shred everything. And it's normal for your shredder to overheat...

[cathfromsaron]

shred it all and then recycle the bits!

also makes good compost, if you know a gardener? x

[factor-fiction]

I shred loads of stuff and put it in our papecard recycling bin, but I understand some councils don't like shredded paper mixed in with sheets of paper- I read that some want you to put it in the grass/garen waste. If recycling is important to you you may want to check your council's website for details

[tiggerblue10]

Yep, I'm going to let it cool down a bit and then carry on. Don't know any gardeners so I'll try and stuff what I can in the recycling bin. Probably take a few weeks to get rid of as there is quite a lot and it seems to expand when shredded! Lol

[tiggerblue10]

Ooo didn't see you there Factor! I'll make enquiries to see if they do. If not then I'll see if I can find a gardener somewhere as Cath has suggested.

Thank you everyone. Glad I asked now or I would have done a very stupid thing. No change there then, Do'h!