Numeric filing method means arranging of files in drawers, racks, shelves or cabinet in order of number. Under this system in place of names of individual or institutions, numbers such as 1,2,3,………….. are written in the folders. Each individual file is allotted a number which appears on the tab (notch) of the folders. The file number, name, telephone number, address etc. of the individuals or institutions are recorded separately in index cards. These index cards are kept in a separate place alphabetically. So, to search a file, index card is to be seen first. Organizations such as insurance company, banks, library, traffic police use this method.
Advantages of Numerical filing

The advantages of numerical classification are as follows:

1. It is easy to understand

2. Disarrangement of files is minimized.

3. The location of numbered files is very easy.

4. The file number can be used as a reference in future correspondence.

5. The expansion of files is very easy since the system is flexible.

6. The preparation of address list is very easy.

7. It reveals certain useful information like the total number of customers, orders and the like.

The disadvantages of numerical filing are given below.

1. It requires much time in referring to the index and locating the specified file.

2. This system is costly. The reason is that there is a need of separate index for them.

3. There may be mental transpositions of figures. For example, one can read 450 instead of 415 which results in  errors.

4. It is very difficult to arrange the files of miscellaneous papers.