~James Lange, CPA, author of Retire Secure!
| Document | Keep for: |
| ATM records | Until recorded in checkbook |
| Paid utility bills | 1 year or less |
| Bank statements | 1 year |
| Medical payment records | 1 year |
| Pay stubs | 1 year |
| Canceled checks with tax implications (alimony, charitable contributions, mortgage interest, retirement plan contributions) | 7 years |
| Credit card statements with tax implications | 7 years |
| Mortgage interest | 7 years |
| Pay stubs that reflect additional tax deductions | 7 years |
| Home loan records | As long as you own the house |
| Insurance records | As long as you have the policy |
| Deeds, car titles, receipts for major purchases | As long as you own the item |
| Birth certificate, marriage license, insurance policy information | Forever, in a fireproof box |
| Will, beneficiary document of retirement plan | Forever, in a fireproof box |
Taken from Women's Day, January 1, 2008, p. 90
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updated 12/13/07