Shopping List for Setting Up a Home Office

You have decided to work from home, and are all ready to start working. Or, are you? Do you have a home office set up in a quiet area of the house? If you haven't already, you will need to go shopping for a few essentials before you can get to work. Check these items off your shopping list for setting up a home office.

1. Desk. The size desk you need depends on how you plan on using it, the amount of space you have available and what you plan on keeping on it. Look for a desk that fits your budget and needs. An office chair would be good, too.

2. Computer. Depending on the type of work you will be doing, you will likely need a computer with Internet access. Decide whether a laptop or desktop will work best for you.

3. Printer. You might need a printer for making hard copies of documents or printing research. There are inexpensive printers for the most basic of needs, as well as more expensive ones with wireless printing, faxing, copying and more.

4. Copy Paper. You cannot print those documents without copy paper. The basic 8.5"x11" sheets should suffice for most printing needs, but you might want to have legal paper or letterhead on hand, as well.

5. Printer Cartridges. Ink cartridges are another must-have for your printing needs. Find out what kind your printer requires, and make sure to have extras on hand for when the ink dries up.

6. Filing Cabinet. You will need a way to keep all those documents organized in your home office. They are available in all sizes, so consider the amount of space you will need for the papers you will be filing.

7. Manila Folders. Keep your filing cabinet organized with manila folders. Label each one with the type of documents that will be filed within. Make sure to also label each drawer, if each has a different purpose.

8. Notepads and Pens. Always keep a supply of scratch paper and several pens handy for when you need to quickly jot down a few notes. You can always tear up old papers and write on the blank side, but make sure you have extra pens nearby.

9. Calendar or Planner. Some sort of daily planner or desk calendar is a must for keeping organized while you work from home. It can be easy to get distracted and forget deadlines, but a planner will serve as a reminder each day.

10. Miscellaneous Supplies. Other miscellaneous supplies include tape, a stapler, scissors, paperclips and glue. Keep them at your desk; you never know when you might need them. What else do you believe are must-have items for setting up a home office?