Taxation logo taxation mission text

Since 1927 the leading authority on tax law, practice and administration

Readers' Forum - Paper chase

14 July 2005
Issue: 4016 / Categories:

I have retained working papers, copy tax returns, correspondence, etc., relating to my clients for a considerable number of years, to the extent that — as I write — I am becoming concerned at the load-bearing capability of the attic at my office! Perhaps I should at least clear a space above my desk and chair this evening.

I have retained working papers, copy tax returns, correspondence, etc., relating to my clients for a considerable number of years, to the extent that — as I write — I am becoming concerned at the load-bearing capability of the attic at my office! Perhaps I should at least clear a space above my desk and chair this evening.
I would be very interested in the advice and recommendations of other readers regarding the length of time for which such material should be retained. I understand that there are legal requirements — and please clarify these — but are there other factors that I should take into account which should mean that such papers should be kept for longer periods, and how long?
And bearing in mind the loading in my attic, to what extent do readers use microfilm or scanning technology to record documents, etc. and do they think that this is cost effective?
Query T16,643 

Issue: 4016 / Categories:
back to top icon