SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/money-keep-tax-records-3-years

After you file your taxes, how long does the IRS generally say to keep the records behind them?

3 years from the date you filed, in most cases.

Start playing free

  1. 30 days
  2. 3 years ✔
  3. Forever, by law

Why: The IRS can usually review a return for 3 years after you file, so keep your W-2s, receipts and forms that long. Some special cases call for longer, like 6 or 7 years.

Huh, didn't know that: Keep property records until the tax time limit expires for the year you sell or otherwise dispose of it.

The dad joke
I fear for the calendar. Its days are numbered.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: 3 years. The IRS can usually review a return for 3 years after you file, so keep your W-2s, receipts and forms that long. Some special cases call for longer, like 6 or 7 years.

  1. How Long Should I Keep Records? (IRS) www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/how-long-should-i-keep-records
    Keep records for 3 years from the date you filed your original return
    Checked 2026-10-11.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

MoneyFor most people, when is the usual deadline to file federal income taxes?MoneyYou e-file your tax return and you're owed a refund. About how long does it typically take?MoneyWhat happens to your credit score when you check it yourself?

That's stuff everyone should know.