Tax Records

You should keep any and all documents that may have an impact on your federal tax return. Your annual tax record file should contain the following:

• All yearend tax statements.
• One copy each of your federal and state tax returns.
• One copy of Form 8843 Statement for Exempt Individuals and Individuals With A Medical Condition.
• Any correspondence with IRS or state tax authority.
• Other receipts or documents you used to prepare your tax return.

Keep copies of your tax return and yearend tax statements in a safe place for at least 3 years. You may need them in the future for a tax audit or when applying for additional U.S. visas or changes in your immigration status. If you might apply for permanent residency or US citizenship, keep your tax records for 7 years.

For information on how to request a copy of your tax return from the IRS, click here.

Other Documents

Other tax-related and financial documents you should keep on file:

• Monthly statements from financial institutions, including processed checks (cancelled or imaged).
• Pay statements listing your gross employment income and deductions such as taxes withheld. Statement is either attached to your check or mailed if you have direct deposit.
• Receipts or proof of payment from financial transactions such as:
  
  • Rent
  • Utility bills
  • Insurance
  • Telephone
  • Textbooks and school supplies (for those with a scholarship)
  • Credit card and other receipts
  • Invoices
    
• Contracts – e. g., apartment lease; employment contract; bank, loan or credit card contract.
  

For complete information on recordkeeping, refer to IRS Publication 552 - Recordkeeping for Individuals at: www.irs.gov.