# URN files in dashboard filters

You can filter a dashboard by a URN file, a file of reference keys such as household or supporter numbers. You upload the file in a user filter, and choose whether Orbit keeps it permanently or only while you need it.

## Upload a file to a user filter

You upload a URN file through a reference variable, such as **Household URN**.

To upload a URN file:

1. Under **User Filters**, select **\+ Add Filter** and choose the reference variable, or use a predefined filter for it if the dashboard has one.
2. Select the **Upload File** tab and choose your file.
3. Choose how Orbit keeps the file:

   - **Permanent**: Stores the file in a folder you choose in the public directory
   - **Temporary**: Deletes the file when you remove the filter, log out of Orbit, or log in to a new session
4. Enter a **File Name**. For a permanent file, also choose its folder.

You don't need to choose a location for a temporary file, because Orbit manages it.

## Organise permanent files in folders

When you upload a permanent URN file, you can create folders in the public directory to organise your uploads. A preview shows the first five lines of each file.

## If you can't choose Permanent

If **Permanent** is greyed out, an admin has made all URN files in user filters temporary.

Admins control this with the **Force URN filter files to be stored temporarily** application setting.