GON Reader Question
"How many years should we keep police reports and court documents about crimes that were done against us (e.g. home invasion robbery, burglaries, ID theft?) Thanks!"
-- Jean
Maria Gracia Responds
Hi Jean,
Thank you for your question. A good rule of thumb is to keep these types of documents for seven years after the case is settled and you received any insurance money.
It's doubtful that you'll have to unearth them during those 7 years, but always good to play on the safe side.
Once the 7 years are up, shred those documents.
Hope this helps!
GON Reader Question
"Any suggestions for getting rid of working cell phones? We've accumulated about 5 from the kids' old ones (they've since moved out)."
-- Jennifer
Maria Gracia Responds
Hi Jennifer,
Thank you for asking. Here are two options:
1. Sell them. Post a message on your Facebook page. Maybe one of your friends would like to buy. Or offer them on a site like eBay.
2. Donate them. Organizations like cellsforcells.com recycle old cell phones and use them to help families battling cancer. Another organization I know of is cellphonesforsoldiers.com. They recycle donated cell phones and use the proceeds to purchase international calling cards for troops to call home and provide emergency funding for veterans.
There may be a local cell phone donation organization right in your local area as well that you may be able to find with a Google Search.
Before you sell or donate, be sure to erase all data and reset your phone to factory settings. Your cell phone provider can assist with this if you need help.
