What tax years can I throw away?

Generally, you must keep all required records and supporting documents for a period of six years from the end of the last tax year they relate to. The tax year: is the fiscal period for corporations. is the calendar year for individuals.

Can I throw away old w2?

After you receive your form W-2, and checked it against the last pay statement for the year, you can shred and discard all paycheck statements. Monthly investment account and quarterly retirement plan statements can be shredded and discarded after you’ve reconciled them with the year-end statement.

How far back can the IRS audit you?

three years
Generally, the IRS can include returns filed within the last three years in an audit. If we identify a substantial error, we may add additional years. We usually don’t go back more than the last six years. The IRS tries to audit tax returns as soon as possible after they are filed.

Can I throw away 2014 tax documents?

If no exception applies to you, for federal purposes, you can probably discard most of your tax records that are more than 3 years old; add a year or so to that if you live in a state with a longer statute. Examples: Susan filed her 2013 tax return before the due date of April 15, 2014.

How do you dispose of old tax returns?

The key to securely disposing of tax records is to use a quality shredding service that will properly shred statements, tax return documents, and dispose of receipts using the most thorough and complete shredding methods available. When it comes to shredding old tax returns, you can never be too careful.

How far back can IRS audit you?

How do I get rid of old tax returns?

The most common way to destroy sensitive documents is to shred them. Many stores offer paper shredding at a cost to you. Some of those businesses include The UPS Store, FedEx, Staples, and Office Depot. Sometimes, your financial institution will shred them.

What papers to save and what to throw away?

What Documents Can I Throw Away—and When?

• Tax Returns. Old tax documents are probably the number one category of documents we’re asked about.
• Bank Statements.
• Explanation of Benefits (EOB) Forms.
• Medical Bills.
• Utility Bills.
• Paycheck Stubs.
• Credit Card Statements.
• Wills and Estate Planning Documents.