Record Retention Guide
Know what to keep and for how long. Use this guide to help you organize your important documents.
Important Note
These are general guidelines. Your specific situation may require longer retention periods. When in doubt, keep records longer or consult with us.
Tax Returns & Supporting Documents
Tax Returns
Federal and state tax returns
W-2s and 1099s
Income statements and tax forms
Receipts for Deductions
Charitable donations, medical expenses, business expenses
Property & Investments
Home Purchase Records
Closing documents, mortgage papers, title insurance
Home Improvement Records
Receipts for renovations, additions, major repairs
Investment Statements
Brokerage statements, stock purchase records
Retirement Account Statements
IRA, 401(k), pension documents
Financial Records
Bank Statements
Monthly or quarterly account statements
Credit Card Statements
Monthly statements (unless needed for tax purposes)
Pay Stubs
Keep until you verify against your W-2
Keep Permanently
- Birth certificates and adoption papers
- Marriage certificates and divorce decrees
- Social Security cards
- Military discharge papers (DD214)
- Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney
- Life insurance policies
- Pension and retirement plan documents
Official IRS Guidelines
For the most current and comprehensive information, refer to the official IRS guidelines on record retention.
Visit IRS.govQuestions About Your Records?
Not sure what to keep for your specific situation? We're happy to help you figure it out.