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How long to keep documents
Pick a household document to see how long it's commonly kept, where to store it, and why. These are general guidelines based on IRS and consumer agency guidance; some situations call for keeping records longer. Nothing is stored.
How long to keep it
Keep forever
Where to keep it
Safe place, plus a scanned copy.
Why
Proof a debt was paid in full if it ever comes up again.
Read the full guide. General guidelines, not legal or tax advice.
The full list
| Document | How long | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Birth, marriage or death certificate | Keep forever | Original in a fire and water resistant safe or safe deposit box. A scanned copy helps, but agencies usually want the certified original. |
| Social Security card | Keep forever | Safe place at home. Never in your wallet. |
| Passport | Keep forever (even expired) | Home safe, where you can reach it quickly. |
| Will, trust or power of attorney | Keep forever (the current version) | Ask your attorney. Often the original stays with the attorney or in a home safe, with a copy elsewhere. |
| Military discharge papers (DD-214) | Keep forever | Safe place, plus a scanned copy. |
| Tax return | At least 3 years after filing; many keep it for good | File box by year, plus a scanned copy. |
| W-2, 1099 and deduction receipts | With the tax return: at least 3 years, 7 to be safe | In the same folder as that year's return. |
| Pay stub | Until it matches your W-2 | Inbox or a single folder for the year. Then shred. |
| Bank or credit card statement | About 1 year, unless needed for taxes | Online is fine. Shred paper copies when done. |
| Utility bill | Until the next bill shows your payment | Online is fine. Keep longer only for a home office deduction. |
| Home purchase and closing papers | While you own the home, plus at least 3 years after the sale is reported | Home safe or file box, plus a scanned copy. |
| Home improvement receipts | While you own the home, plus at least 3 years after the sale is reported | One "home" folder, scanned too. |
| Investment purchase records | While you own the investment, plus at least 3 years after the sale is reported | Online with the broker, plus your own copy. |
| Loan payoff letter or lien release | Keep forever | Safe place, plus a scanned copy. |
| Vehicle title | While you own the vehicle | Home safe, not in the car. |
| Insurance policy | While the policy is active, plus until any claims are settled | File box or online, plus agent contacts in your emergency binder. |
| Medical bills and insurance statements (EOBs) | Until paid and resolved; longer if deducted on taxes | One folder per year. Shred when done. |
| Receipt for a big purchase | As long as you own the item | With the warranty, or photographed. |
| Rental lease | Until the lease ends and your deposit is returned | File box or scanned. |
| Pre-approved credit offers | Don't keep | Shred, don't recycle. |
Based on general IRS record-keeping guidance and consumer agency advice. A tax professional or attorney can advise on your own records.