Basis for traditional IRA without backup tax documents

[wdkott]

I kept track of both deductible and non-deductible traditional IRA contributions on a spreadsheet but no longer have the tax records or 8606 forms of when I made these contributions.  These contributions were in the late nineties until 2001.  Can my spreadsheet still be used as justification for determining my basis, or am I out of luck and just have to consider all my past contributions as deductible?

[DianeC958 · Accepted solution]

Without something more than a spreadsheet the IRS will probably disallow the basis.

It is important to have additional documentation for basis and deductions taken on a tax return.

[fanfare]

you lost your 8606 but that doesn't mean the IRS lost it.

If it makes you feel better, make a small non-deductible contribution (if allowed) like $100 and file form 8606 

showing your basis + 100.

OR

file 8606 showing your basis, many people do this even though it's not required.

With no contribution Turbotax won't include 8606, you'd have to file on paper.