Credit Card/Purchasing Documents
| Type | Recommended Period of Retention |
| Contracts (purchases and sales) | At least 6 years after the termination or disposal of item |
| Credit Card Receipts | Shred once reconciled with your monthly statement |
| Sales Receipts | At least 6 years |
Bank Documents
| Type | Recommended Period of Retention |
| Bank Deposit/Withdrawal Slips | Shred once reconciled with your monthly statement |
| Bank and Credit Card Statements | At least 7 years |
| Cancelled Checks | At least 7 years |
Investment Documents
| Type | Recommended Period of Retention |
| IRA Contribution Statements | Permanent |
| Pension/Profit Sharing Informational Returns | Permanent |
| Retirement/Savings Plan | Permanent |
Insurance Documents
| Type | Recommended Period of Retention |
| Insurance Policies | At least 6 years after the termination of the policy |
| Settled Insurance Claims | At least 4 years after the termination of the policy |
Tax Documents
| Type | Recommended Period of Retention |
| Income Tax Payment Checks | Permanent |
| Income Tax Returns and Worksheets | Permanent |
| Medical Bills (if tax related) | At least 7 years |
| Records for Tax Deductions | At least 7 years (e.g., charitable donations) |
Home/Residence and Personal Documents
| Type | Recommended Period of Retention |
| Bills | At least 1 year, however bills for large purchases should Retained for insurance purchases |
| Deeds, Mortgages, and Bills of Sales | Permanent |
| Legal Correspondence | Permanent |
| Medical Bills | At least 3 years |
| Contracts and Agreements | At least 6 years |
| Paycheck Stubs | Shred after reconciled with W-2 form and taxes are paid |
| Plan and Trust Agreement | Permanent |
| Real Estate Records of Improvement | Retain for length of home ownership |
| Utility Records | At least 3 years |