How Do I Use Folders and File Structure in Canopy?
Folders help you organize, filter, and manage firm-prepared, internal, and client-uploaded documents in one centralized system.
Why This Matters
A clear folder structure makes it easier to locate documents, control access, and keep client and internal files properly separated—especially as your firm’s document volume grows.
Table of Contents
Access Files in Canopy
Click Files in the left navigation.
The Files page is Canopy’s main document management hub.
Understand File and Folder Structure
At a high level, files can be organized into three main areas:
Client Files – Folders tied to individual clients
Internal Files – Files accessible to you and your team
My Files – Files only you can access
Each folder can contain unlimited subfolders to match your firm’s organization needs.
There are more detailed videos on adding and uploading files and creating folder templates in the knowledge base linked here.
Navigate the Files Page
Switch Between File Areas
Use the left-hand panel to move between:
Client Files
Internal Files
My Files
Recently Viewed
Browse Folders and Files
The center panel displays folders and files for the selected location.
Double-click a folder to open it.
Use the breadcrumb path to track where you are and move back up the folder hierarchy.
Folder Navigation Indicators
Dark gray arrows indicate folders with subfolders.
Click the arrow to expand the folder tree.
Light gray guide lines show folder hierarchy.
Number badges show how many files are in that folder.
Notes
File counts include files only—not subfolders.
File counts are not recursive and apply only to the individual folder.
Folder Navigation Tools
Above the breadcrumbs, icons allow you to:
Add a new folder
Apply folder templates
Expand all folders
You can also view archived files from this area.
Upload and Add Folders
At the top of the Files page, click Add to:
Upload a file
Upload a link
Add a new folder
Upload a folder
Add a folder template
A search bar is also available to quickly locate specific files.
Use the File Inbox
The File Inbox helps you review and organize newly added files.
Open the File Inbox
Click the File Inbox icon on the left side of the page.
A red badge shows how many files need review.
Review and Organize Files
Click the inbox icon to expand the File Inbox.
Preview a file using the eye icon.
Rename a file using the pencil icon.
Drag and drop files into the appropriate folder.
Use Select All to move multiple files at once.
Notes
When viewing Client Files, the badge count updates to show files for that specific client only.
Click the inbox icon again to collapse the File Inbox.
Learn about uploading files and the files inbox in a video linked here.
Work With Client Files
Navigate to the Client Record
Click the client name in the upper-right corner to open the Client Record.
Access Files From the Client Record
Open a client record.
Click the Files tab.
The same file and folder structure appears, showing only files related to that client. All file management actions work the same way as in the main Files page.
Summary
Folders and file structure in Canopy give your firm a flexible, secure way to organize documents, review client uploads, and maintain clean separation between client, internal, and personal files.
Need help?
Contact Support or ask Penny, our AI Support Bot, for assistance.