How long should I keep statements?

steb_2

I was wondering if anyone could tell me how long I should keep credit card statements and bank account statements for before shredding them?

I presume I would need to keep bank statements for a longer period of time than credit card statements.

Thought I would ask before I regret shredding ones I should have kept!

Thanks in advance.

Caped_Avenger

I'd personally always recommend keeping bank statements for 6 years, since that's what i've been advised by every bank i've asked. I've not had a credit card for all that long, but i'd keep copies for at least 2 years.

If the account is closed, maybe then i'd consider throwing out the statements.

Sooler

Do you have a scanner, you could could scan them in and archive them to a CD - then shred 'em. Then you've always got a copy just in case and less clutter.

Milarky

Six to nine months I would say. This allows you to provide 'recent' originals for certain verification purposes if necessary. You'll note that credit card companies only provide you with online statement back six months anyway.

When six gets to nine [or nine to tweleve] just take out and destroy the oldest three months worth.

Mark7799

Maximum is six years in line with statute. Someone could come back to you in that period chasing a debt. Useless after that as banks destroy their own paper records on six years

deemy2004

I scan mine - and try to keep them indeftinely though the odd one gets scrapped.

Also remember if you have goods under warranty to keep them just in case of problems