Record Keeping for Small Businesses

How long should you keep records?

The IRS provides guidelines on how long you are required to keep certain records. You can find more detailed information on their website, which includes the bullet point information below.

1. Keep records for 3 years if situations (4), (5), and (6) below do not apply to you.

2. Keep records for 3 years from the date you filed your original return or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later, if you file a claim for credit or refund after you file your return.

3. Keep records for 7 years if you file a claim for a loss from worthless securities or bad debt deduction.

4. Keep records for 6 years if you do not report income that you should report, and it is more than 25% of the gross income shown on your return.

5. Keep records indefinitely if you do not file a return.

6. Keep records indefinitely if you file a fraudulent return.

7. Keep employment tax records for at least 4 years after the date that the tax becomes due or is paid, whichever is later.