General principles
Retention periods depend on document type, legal requirements, and personal need. When in doubt, err on the side of keeping longer.
Common categories
General guidance:
- Tax records — often 7 years (verify current IRS guidance)
- Contracts — for the contract's term plus any statute of limitations
- Employment records — varies by jurisdiction and document
- Medical records — often indefinite; varies by need
- Estate planning documents — permanently
- Receipts for major purchases — for the useful life of the item
Storage tips
Use secure storage with appropriate backups. Organize by category and date, and review periodically to prune obsolete materials.
Frequently asked
- Can I shred originals after scanning?
- It depends on the document type and applicable rules. Originals of wills, deeds, and certain legal instruments should generally be preserved.
- Are digital copies legally valid?
- Often yes, but some documents require originals. Verify before disposing of physical copies.
- How should I protect sensitive documents?
- Use encrypted digital storage, locked physical storage, and limit access.
- Does LegalDocBuilder.com provide retention advice?
- We provide general educational content. Specific retention rules vary by jurisdiction and industry.
LegalDocBuilder.com is a document preparation platform, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice or representation. For complex matters, review your documents with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.