What we’ll cover:
We know you probably can’t wait to clear all the paperwork and snack wrappers that have piled up on your table while you were doing your personal income taxes.
Go ahead, toss the wrappers, but save your tax documents. And we don’t mean just shoving everything back into a folder or a shoebox. If you don’t already have a recordkeeping system, now is a good time to start one.
Keeping your tax records organized can make it easier to find the right documents in case you need to:
But what types of records should you keep and for how long?
The IRS doesn’t provide a definitive list of documents you should keep. And that makes sense given that everyone’s tax situation is different. The IRS generally recommends keeping copies of your tax returns and any documents that support the income, deductions, credits and exemptions that you claim.
With that in mind, here are some examples of the records you would want to hold on to.
If you’re ever unsure whether you should keep or toss a document, err on the side of keeping it. This is one instance where you won’t be judged for hoarding. If the IRS ever reaches out to ask for more information, you’ll be ready.
Don’t forget: You can always check in with a tax professional on what documents to save.
The answer depends on your personal tax situation.
But for most individuals, the IRS generally recommends that you keep your basic tax documents (usually some version of Form 1040 plus supporting documents) for at least three years from the filing date. That’s because if you ever get audited, the IRS can ask to review returns that you filed within the last three years. According to the IRS, most audits will cover returns filed within the last two years.
Keep in mind though that they can always look back further if a more extensive review is warranted – for instance, if you’ve substantially underreported your income.
But the three-year timeline is just a general rule of thumb for basic tax recordkeeping. There are some situations where the IRS recommends you hold on to your tax records and supporting documents (receipts, statements, etc.) for much longer.
Keep records for . . .
How you choose to maintain your tax records (digital vs. paper) is up to you, as long as the system keeps you organized and allows you to easily access your documents when you need them.
No matter what organizational method you use, the most important thing is to keep your records in a safe and secure place. When it’s time to throw away old records, make sure that the documents and/or data are properly destroyed. Tax, financial and health documents contain sensitive personal data. You don’t want them to fall into the wrong hands.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized professional advice. Individuals should consult their own tax advisor for matters specific to their own taxes and nothing communicated to you herein should be considered tax advice. This article was prepared by and approved by Marcus by Goldman Sachs, but does not reflect the institutional opinions of Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. or any of their affiliates, subsidiaries or division. Goldman Sachs Bank USA does not provide any financial, economic, legal, accounting, tax or other recommendation in this article. Information and opinions expressed in this article are as of the date of this material only and subject to change without notice. Information contained in this article does not constitute the provision of investment advice by Goldman Sachs Bank USA or any its affiliates. Neither Goldman Sachs Bank USA nor any of its affiliates makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the statements or any information contained in this document and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.
Join our Marcus social media community, where we share content and inspiration to help improve your financial health. See you there!