Free Shred Day Near Me: Protect Yourself with Secure Document Shredding
Every four seconds, someone’s identity is stolen. One of the easiest ways to protect yourself is by safely disposing of old documents. ServU Credit Union, in partnership with Swarthout Recycling, is proud to offer Free Shred Days to help you securely destroy sensitive papers and reduce the risk of identity theft.
Why Shredding Documents Matters
Shredding isn’t just about getting rid of paper—it’s about taking control of your personal information. Every document you keep carries details about your life, from account numbers to addresses. When left unprotected, even outdated records can be pieced together and exploited. By shredding, you:
- Close security gaps – Outdated files may still contain sensitive information that can be misused years later.
- Protect your family’s privacy – From children’s school records to medical information, shredding helps safeguard loved ones.
- Build healthy financial habits – Regular shredding keeps your records current, organized, and less vulnerable to loss or theft.
What to Shred (and When to Shred It)
Knowing when to keep or dispose of documents helps balance security with organization. Take a look at the below guidance that was stated in an article by Weintraub Schifferle, Lisa, Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education at the Federal Trade Commission*).
| Document Type | Keep How Long | Notes |
| Bank statements & pay stubs | 1 year | Unless you have unresolved disputes. |
| Credit card statements & utility bills | Shred once the bill is paid | Unless needed for tax purposes. |
| ATM receipts, junk mail, & receipts | Shred immediately | Unless related to warranties, taxes or insurance. |
| Tax Returns | Forever | Check with your tax advisor. It doesn’t hurt to keep these safely stored for future reference. |
| Documents related to major life events: (birth certificates, wills, passports, social security cards, marriage or divorce decrees, death certificates, etc. | Forever | Store securely, never shred. |
Quick Tip: Digitize important records and store them in encrypted files for easy, long-term access—then shred the paper originals.
2025 Free Shred Day Schedule
All ServU Shred Day events run 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Please limit shredding to 5 boxes per vehicle. Personal documents only.
- September 20 – Hornell Office
- September 27 – Bath Office
- October 4 – Dundee Office
- October 18 – Admin Office
What to Expect on Shred Day
- Drive-thru convenience – Stay in your car while our team and volunteers unload your documents.
- On-site shredding – Watch as your papers are destroyed immediately, giving you peace of mind.
- Eco-friendly disposal – Partnering with Swarthout Recycling ensures shredded materials are recycled responsibly.
- Community focus – By participating, you’re supporting a safer, more secure local community.
Shred Smarter: Year-Round Protection Tips
Keep your information secure long after Shred Day with these habits:
- Shred regularly – Plan quarterly or seasonal cleanouts to avoid pile-ups.
- Use a shred bin at home – Keep a designated container for sensitive mail until shred day.
- Go digital – Sign up for e-statements to reduce paper clutter and minimize risk.
- Double-check before shredding – Never destroy essential legal documents such as wills, property deeds, or Social Security cards.
Take Action Today
Don’t wait until your sensitive information falls into the wrong hands. Protect yourself, your family, and your peace of mind by bringing your documents to a ServU Free Shred Day near you.
Shred smart. Shred safe. Shred with ServU.
*Weintraub Schifferle, Lisa. “A Packrat’s Guide to Shredding. Federal Trade Commission Website. (https://consumer.ftc.gov/pack-rats-guide-shredding). Date of access: September 3, 2025.
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