Know When to Shred Your Documents
Stop guessing which papers to keep and which to destroy. Get a personalized shredding schedule based on tax and legal retention requirements.
Document Library
Browse categories and check off documents you currently have. For dated items, enter the relevant year so we can calculate when it is safe to shred.
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Your Shredding Schedule
Based on your selected documents, here is when each item is safe to destroy. Dates are calculated from today or the year you entered.
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Go to the Document Library above and check off the documents you have. Then come back here to generate your schedule.
Document Retention Guide
Tax Documents
Keep tax returns for 7 years minimum. The IRS can audit up to 6 years back, and sometimes longer if they find significant errors. Keep W-2s, 1099s, and receipts for deductions with your return for the same period.
Bank & Credit Card Statements
Monthly statements can go after 1 year unless needed for taxes. Shred ATM receipts once you verify them against your statement. Keep records of home improvements and major purchases as long as you own the item.
Medical Records
Keep bills for 1 year after payment. Keep records of major procedures, diagnoses, and immunizations permanently. Insurance EOBs can be shredded after verifying payment. Prescription records should be kept for 2 years.
Legal Documents
Keep property deeds, titles, and vehicle titles as long as you own the item. Keep marriage and birth certificates forever. Loan documents can be shredded 7 years after payoff. Contracts should be kept for 7 years after expiration.
Common Shredding Mistakes
- Shredding too early: Many people shred tax documents after 3 years. The IRS has up to 6 years to audit in many cases.
- Not shredding at all: Old bills, bank statements, and pre-approved credit offers are gold mines for identity thieves.
- Using a strip-cut shredder: Strip-cut shredders are less secure. Cross-cut models provide better protection for sensitive documents.
- Forgetting digital copies: Scan important documents before shredding. Store encrypted backups of tax returns and legal documents.
- Ignoring state requirements: Some states have different retention periods for tax records. Check your state's rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I keep tax returns?
Keep tax returns for at least 7 years from the filing date. The IRS can audit up to 6 years back in some cases. Keep them forever if you want a complete financial history.
When can I shred old bank statements?
Bank statements can usually be shredded after 1 year unless you need them for tax purposes. If a statement shows a deducted expense, keep it for 7 years with your tax records.
What about medical bills?
Keep medical bills for 1 year after payment to verify accuracy, or 7 years if you deducted them on taxes. Keep records of major procedures, diagnoses, and immunizations permanently.
Is it safe to shred credit card offers?
Yes. Shred pre-approved credit card offers immediately. They contain personal information that identity thieves can use to open accounts in your name.
What type of shredder should I use?
A cross-cut shredder is recommended for financial and medical documents. Strip-cut shredders are less secure because the strips can be reassembled. Look for P-4 security level or higher.