How Long To Keep Paperwork

Another question I'm asked frequently is, "how long do I keep paperwork?" Well I've done the research for you and here's a quick and simple guide:

 

Keep Forever

ü  Adoption Papers

ü  Birth/Death Certificates

ü  Contracts *

ü  Divorce Decree

ü  Education Records

ü  Immunization Records

ü  Life Insurance

ü  Living Wills

ü  Marriage License

ü  Military Service (DD-214)

ü  Passports **

ü  Power of Attorney

ü  Real Estate Records

ü  Retirement Investment Paperwork

ü  Social Security Cards

ü  Tax Returns

ü  Trust Paperwork

ü  W-2’s

ü  Wills *

*Until Updated

**Passports must be renewed every 10 years (5 years for children under age 15)

7 Years

ü  Cancelled Checks

ü  Tax Return Documentation

1-2 Years

ü  Pay Stubs

ü  Retirement Plan Statements

Until New One Arrives

ü  Bank Statements

ü  Investment Records

ü  Social Security Statement

ü  Utility Bills

Until Paid Off or Sold

ü  Auto Loan Statements

ü  Mortgage Statements

ü  Student Loan Statements

As Long As You Own

ü  Appliance/Electronics Manuals

ü  Receipts for Large Purchases

ü  Service Contracts

ü  Vehicle Title

ü  Warranties

Remember to SHRED any documents that you are discarding.

 

-Janel

oneorganizedmama