How Long Should You Keep Your Income Tax Records?

According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), you should keep your income tax records and supporting documents for at least six years from the end of the last tax year to which they relate. This applies even if you filed your return online or did not have to attach supporting documents when filing. The CRA may ask to see these records later to support claims you made on your return.

What Records to Keep

Your tax records include more than just the return itself. They should include all documents that support the information on your tax return, such as:

Copies of your filed tax returns and any Notices of Assessment or Reassessment.
Receipts and slips (e.g., T4, T5, RRSP contribution receipts, medical and charitable donation receipts).
Cancelled cheques, bank statements, invoices, and other proof of expenses or credits claimed.

Why Keep Records for Six Years

The six‑year retention period gives the CRA the ability to review or audit your tax return if necessary. If you file your tax return late, the six‑year period starts from the date you file, not the end of the tax year.

Example

If you file a 2023 tax return on time, you should keep all supporting records until at least the end of 2029 (six years after the end of the 2023 tax year).

Special Situations

If you are under audit, have filed an objection or appeal, keep your records until the issue is fully resolved, even if it goes beyond the six‑year period.
Certain records related to long‑term properties or investments may require retention beyond six years if they affect future tax calculations.
If you want to destroy records before the end of the required retention period, you must get written permission from the CRA using Form T137 or a written request to your tax services office.

Record‑Keeping Tips