Shredding
Are you wondering what to keep and what to
shred? We looked at experts’ advice and
compiled this summary of how long they
recommend keeping certain documents.

Immediately

When should I shred it?
Sales receipts
ATM receipts
Paid credit card statements
Paid utility bills
Credit offers
Cancelled checks (that are not tax-related)

After 7 years

Up to 1 year

Expired warranties

Pay stubs
Bank statements
Paid, undisputed medical bills

Tax-related receipts
Tax-related cancelled checks
W-2s
Records for tax deductions taken

It depends...

Auto titles
Keep as long as you own the vehicle

Home deeds
Keep as long as you own the property

Disputed medical bills
Keep until the issue is resolved

Home improvement receipts

Keep Forever

Keep until you sell your home and pay any
capital gains taxes

Birth certificates
Social Security cards
Marriage or divorce decrees
Citizenship papers
Adoption papers
Death certificates
Tax returns

LOCK
THESE
UP

Federal Trade Commission   FTC.gov
April 2015