For Immediate Release

San Diego, CA (April 4, 2002) - With tax deadlines looming around the corner, Mail Boxes Etc. (MBE), the world’s largest franchisor of retail business and postal services, reminds consumers to take this opportunity to update, copy, and store their personal documents.

"Many of us forget to take the time to store our important papers properly, and, invariably, we have difficulty finding them when we need them most," said Jim Amos, MBE's president and CEO. "Tax season is the perfect time to think about document preservation. As consumers prepare to mail off their returns, MBE suggests they take an extra moment to copy their tax returns and other necessary papers, update their wills, and store all important documents in a safe place."

Below is MBE’s top-ten list of quick and easy tips for preserving valuable documents.

1. Be sure to make extra copies of tax filings and other important papers.
2. Keep copies of documents in two separate "safe" places (e.g., safe deposit box, fireproof safe, file cabinet, at the office, or with an accountant). Make sure to store records in a stable environment away from sunlight, bright lights, and water pipes.
3. Store the following documents in a safe deposit box: copy of will, deeds, titles, mortgages, stock/bond certificates, employment contracts, prenuptial agreements, adoption papers, and naturalization papers.
4. For records kept at home, use a fireproof safe or file cabinet. Documents should include: titles to cars, boats or other vehicles, insurance policies, bank statements, W-2 forms, extra copy of will, income statements, employment benefits, and passports.
5. Save all records of home improvements. This may help resolve disputes with insurance agents in the event of a disaster.
6. Hang on to tax returns (including W2s) FOREVER, particularly if you own a small business. The IRS has three years from an annual return’s due date to audit for that year. But if the IRS suspects fraud, there is no limit to how far back it can search for evidence.
7. Review monthly checking account statements. Once each deposit is confirmed, shred the corresponding deposit slip.
8. Hang on to receipts and credit card statements for any appliance under warranty.
9. Be sure to inventory and videotape all expensive household items. Store the videotape in a fireproof safe or safe deposit box.
10. AND MOST IMPORTANT – Draw up a list that details the location of every important record. This list should include the contact information of individuals family members may need to reach regarding specific financial affairs (e.g., accountant, stockbroker, lawyer, financial advisor, insurance agent and bank officer). Keep one copy in a safe deposit box, give one to an attorney, and another to a relative or close friend.

Mail Boxes Etc. provides consumers with a one-stop shop for all their document services needs. In addition to pack and ship capabilities, MBE has faxing, photocopying, and laminating services designed to help consumers with all aspects of their personal and/or business needs. MBE provides real help to its customers by delivering personalized and convenient business solutions with world-class customer service.

Established in 1980, Mail Boxes Etc. (MBE), a UPS company, is the world's largest franchisor of retail postal and business services. There are more than 4,500 MBE locations worldwide, with master license agreements covering more than 75 countries. Entrepreneur magazine's annual "Franchise 500" has rated MBE #1 in the postal and business services category for 12 consecutive years. In the United States, MBE locations are owned and operated by licensed franchisees of Mail Boxes Etc., Inc. Outside the United States, MBE locations are owned and operated by MBE master licensees or their franchisees. MBE maintains a Web site at www.mbe.com.

MBE is a UPS® company. The UPS Store® and Mail Boxes Etc®. centers are independently owned and operated by franchisees of Mail Boxes Etc., Inc. in the USA and by its master licensees or their franchisees outside of the USA. Services and hours of operation may vary by location. ©2007 United Parcel Service of America, Inc.