TAX RECORDS

How long should you keep them?

The IRS rules, simply

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

Most returns

3 YEARS

From filing date

The IRS usually has 3 years to audit.

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

Missed income

6 YEARS

25%+ left out

Keep 6 years if you left out over 25% of income.

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

Bad debts

7 YEARS

Worthless securities

Claimed a bad debt loss? Keep 7 years.

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

Never filed

FOREVER

No time limit

If you didn't file, keep records indefinitely.

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

Your home

3 YRS

After you sell

Keep purchase and improvement receipts.

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

Home gain

$500K

Couple exclusion

Married couples can often exclude up to $500,000.

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

IRA basis

FORM 8606

Keep until withdrawn

Avoid paying tax twice on nondeductible money.

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

Storage

SCAN

Back it up

Scan papers and keep a secure backup.

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain

Don't shred too soon

Full checklist

Read the guide

nexgenheadlines.com

Photo: Carol M. Highsmith / Library of Congress, public domain