Faxes - you would think that they are outdated, but we still use a ton of them. Instead of sending something electronically from one person to another via email, we print it, fax it, and then it comes out as another piece of paper on the other end. One document, twice the paper, instead of no paper at all.

So what can we do about it? The easiest first step would be to encourage people to send things to you via email, instead of fax. Use an email address that is as simple as possible, since you will be spelling it to someone over the phone. When sending information, ask them if there is an email address you can use, instead of a fax.

If people really want to use a fax on their end, there are solutions so that at least your half of the process can be paperless. Try out a service like eFax or Send2Fax, which allow you to send and receive faxes via email.

For a paid plan, you'll be able to send & receive faxes electronically. Prices start from $11.95 and up. eFax does offer a free plan that allows you to receive up to 20 pages a month. Your fax number won't be local and you won't be able to send outgoing messages, but hey - it's free!

So try to go fax-free and paperless. Extra benefit: no filing required.

Rebecca says: I used to use eFax over 5 years ago. This is not new technology, but so many people still aren't aware of it. Sure, the good plans cost money, but so does a fax machine and a dedicated phone line for the fax.