How long to keep records
Pick a type of record to see how long the IRS says to keep it. Plain English, based on the IRS guidance.
Choose a record type
Most tax records
3 years
Keep records for 3 years from the date you filed your return, if none of the other situations apply to you.
Refund or credit claims
3 years, or 2 years from paying the tax
If you file a claim for a credit or refund after filing your return, keep records for 3 years from the date you filed the original return, or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later.
Income under-reported by more than 25%
6 years
Keep records for 6 years if you do not report income that you should, and it is more than 25% of the gross income shown on your return.
Bad debt or worthless securities claim
7 years
Keep records for 7 years if you file a claim for a loss from worthless securities or a bad debt deduction.
Employment tax records
At least 4 years
Keep employment tax records for at least 4 years after the date the tax becomes due or is paid, whichever is later.
No return filed, or a fraudulent return
Keep indefinitely
If you do not file a return, or you file a fraudulent return, keep your records indefinitely.
Records for property
Until the period runs out for the year you sell it
Keep records relating to property until the period of limitations expires for the year in which you sell or otherwise dispose of it.
Your lender, insurer or state may need records kept longer.
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