I admit it. I'm a pack rat. But even I realize you can't keep everything.

Of course, when it comes to personal documents you don't want to toss them too soon.

The Attorney General's office has some advice on which ones to keep and which ones to shred.

Tax Records: Some people think three years is enough. But the AG says, keep them seven years, just to be safe.

Pay Stubs: You should keep them until your W2 comes and you're sure they match up. Then you can shred them.

Bank statements: A year is good. Of course, things related to taxes or business expenses, home improvement or mortgage payments should be kept longer.

And I always keep receipts for major purchase, such as appliances or furniture. I staple them to the warranty and keep them in a shoe box just incase there's a problem down the road.

Any papers related to the purchase or sale of your home or improvements made to it, should be kept for six years after you sell the house.

Utility records and phone bills can be destroyed after you pay them, unless you need them for tax deductions.

For More Information:

Ask the AG - Personal Documents: Keep or Shred?