Once you file your income tax, you aren't quite done. You need to finalize your records. This report looks at the records you need to keep and how long you should keep them.

If you are in any doubt about keeping a financial document, be cautious and keep it. Better to save it now in case you need it later.

The IRS specifies the length of time that you need to keep your tax records though there are some records that you may need to keep longer. The IRS does not specify how you need to keep your records. Choose the method that works best for you whether it's digital, printed, or a combination of the two. Make sure that you backup any digital records.

Tax Return

Keep a copy of your filed tax return including attachments. You should also keep all of the worksheets and forms that you used to complete your return but aren't submitted. You should keep supporting documentation for income, deductions and credits such as W-2 and 1099 forms, bank statements, receipts, cancelled checks, or other proof of payment. Keep these records for at least 3 years.

Here are situations in which you need to keep records for longer than 3 years.

• 7 years, if you claim a loss from worthless securities or a bad debt deduction.

• 6 years if you underreported your income and the amount that was not reported was more than 25% of the gross income shown on your return.

• The later of 3 years or 2 years after tax was paid, if you file a claim a credit or refund after you filed your return.

• Keep records indefinitely if you didn't file a tax return or if tax fraud was committed.

W-2 Forms

An employee is typically provided with 3 copies of a W-2 form. Copy B is filed with federal tax returns, Copy 2 with state and local tax returns and Copy C is your copy. The IRS recommends that you keep Copy C until you begin receiving social security benefits. If there are any questions about your benefits, these copies can show your work record and earnings in each year.

Home

It is important that you keep records related to the purchase, improvement, and sale of your home. Having these records will help you determine if you have a gain or loss when the home is sold. They can also be used to figure depreciation if you use part of your home for rental or business purposes. The records should show the purchase prices, settlement or closing costs, and the cost of any improvements.

Investment Documents

You need to keep records of investments such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. These records should show the purchase price, sales price, and commissions. They may also show reinvested dividends, stock splits and dividends, load charges and original issue discounts. This information will be used to determine if you have a gain or loss when the investment is sold.

The IRS provides more details about record keeping in Publication 17 Your Federal Income Tax.

If you are in any doubt about keeping a financial document, be cautious and keep it. Better to save it now in case you need it later.