The general rule: three years
Keep records that support income, deductions and credits for three years from the date you filed the return (or two years from the date you paid the tax, if later). That is the usual window for the IRS to audit and for you to amend to claim a refund. If you filed early, the clock generally starts on the due date.
Longer periods
| Situation | Keep records for |
|---|---|
| You owe additional tax and the general rule applies | 3 years |
| You did not report income that is more than 25% of the gross income shown on your return | 6 years |
| You filed a claim for a loss from worthless securities or bad debt deduction | 7 years |
| You did not file a return | Indefinitely |
| You filed a fraudulent return | Indefinitely |
| Employment tax records (if you have employees) | At least 4 years after the tax is due or paid |
Records to keep longer
- Property: records that show your cost basis (purchase price, improvements) until the period of limitations expires for the year you sell or dispose of the property. For a home you own for decades, that can be a very long time.
- Retirement accounts: records of nondeductible IRA contributions (Form 8606) until all distributions are taken.
- Business assets: depreciation records until the asset is disposed of plus the limitations period.
- Tax returns themselves: many people keep copies indefinitely; they are small and helpful for mortgages, loans and estate matters.
What to keep
- Copies of filed returns and e-file confirmations.
- W-2s, 1099s and other income forms.
- Receipts, invoices and bank statements for deductions you claimed.
- Mileage logs and home-office records.
- Charitable acknowledgment letters.
- Notices and correspondence from the IRS or state.
Digital records
The IRS accepts electronic copies of records if they are legible and can be reproduced. Scan receipts, name files by year and category, and keep secure backups. Protect sensitive documents with encryption or a password manager-style vault.
Shredding safely
When retention periods expire, shred paper documents and securely delete digital files. Keep a list of what you destroyed and when.
State requirements
State statutes of limitations can differ from federal ones, and some are longer. Check your state revenue agency. Our state guides link to official sites.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I keep my tax returns?
At least three years, and many people keep them permanently. The longer periods apply in situations like underreported income or no return filed.
Can I keep digital copies instead of paper?
Yes, if they are legible and accurate. Back them up securely.
How long should I keep home purchase records?
Until the limitations period expires for the year you sell the home, so often many years.
Official sources
General information only — not tax, legal or financial advice. Tax figures change every year; verify the current numbers at IRS.gov or with a qualified professional. Read the full disclaimer.