How Long to Keep Receipts Calculator
Pick the record type and the date you filed, and get the exact date you can safely shred it — based on the IRS periods of limitations.
Choose a record type and enter your filing date to see the exact discard date.
Stop tracking discard dates in your head
Scan every receipt into ReceiptSync and it's stored, searchable, and safe for as long as the IRS could ever ask — so you can shred the paper today and never think about it again.
How long to keep receipts, by the IRS rules
The IRS keeps records around a "period of limitations" — the window in which you can amend a return or the IRS can assess more tax. For most people and most records, that window is 3 years from the date you filed. But several situations change it:
- 6 years if you underreported income by more than 25%.
- 7 years for a bad-debt deduction or worthless-securities loss.
- 4 years for employment / payroll tax records.
- Own it + 3 years for property and depreciable business assets — the records set your cost basis.
- Indefinitely if you never filed a return or filed a fraudulent one.
For the full breakdown of receipt types and how long to keep each, see our guide to what a receipt is, the types, and how long to keep them. Not sure whether an expense is even deductible? Try the Schedule C category checker.
This calculator is general information, not tax advice. Verify current rules and your situation with the IRS or a qualified tax professional.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to keep receipts for taxes?
For most records the IRS period of limitations is 3 years from the date you filed your return. Keep records 6 years if you underreported income by more than 25%, 7 years for bad-debt or worthless-securities claims, 4 years for employment tax records, and indefinitely if you never filed or filed a fraudulent return.
When does the clock start — the purchase date or the filing date?
It starts from the date you file the tax return that the receipt supports (or the return's due date if you filed early), not the date on the receipt. This tool uses your filing date to calculate the safe discard date.
How long should I keep receipts for a house or car?
Records tied to property (a home, improvements) or a depreciable business asset (a vehicle, equipment) should be kept for as long as you own the item, then 3 more years after you sell or dispose of it. They establish your cost basis and support depreciation.
Can I throw away paper receipts if I have digital copies?
Yes. The IRS accepts legible digital copies of receipts. Once a receipt is scanned and stored, you can discard the paper — which is exactly what ReceiptSync is for. Keep the digital copy for the retention period above.
Is this tax advice?
No — it's free general guidance based on the IRS periods of limitations. Confirm your situation with IRS Publication 583 or a tax professional.