topic how long to keep deceased returns in After you file

how long to keep deceased returns

arejfour — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:43:22 GMT

I've done my mother's returns since 2010. She passed away in 2018. I have both hard copy and electronic PDF copies (saved on flash drives). Her returns were really simple. No income other that SS. She paid no taxes. How far back should I continue to save the hard copies? I'm thinking I could shred the 2010-2014 hard copies. I l appreciated anyone's comments. Thanks

Re: how long to keep deceased returns

maglib — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 08:23:40 GMT

I am so sorry for you loss. The statute of limitations is generally 3 years for an audit. If all she had was social security income, there is probably no need to even keep them as they can be recreated as the records are all online with the IRS tax transcripts if she had no other income.

Will you have to file a final tax return for income in respect of a decadent? Do you need to file a estate tax return for her estate?

Hope this was helpful.

Re: how long to keep deceased returns

arejfour — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 13:55:45 GMT

Thank you for your comments and kind thoughts. A final return, personal/estate, was filed by a CPA that was handling the settling of the estate. Have a nice day