Keep and Shred Suggestions
- Tax returns: The IRS has three years to challenge information in your tax return and six years to conduct an audit based on unreported income. Keep tax returns and supporting records, such as W-2s and 1099s, for at least seven years in a secure place, such as a lock-box.
- Investment statements for taxable accounts: Most brokerage firms and mutual fund companies send annual statements summarizing the year’s transactions. Once you have these, you should shred your monthly and/or quarterly statements with a confetti-cut shredder.
- Bank statements: Keep statements that back up information on your tax returns for up to seven years. Other bank statements can be shredded after reviewing for errors or unauthorized charges.
- Credit card statements: Keep statements for major purchases, like jewelry or large appliances in case the statements are needed for warranty documentation. If you put charitable contributions on your credit card, keep the statement for your tax records. Other monthly statements can be shredded once you’ve reviewed them for errors or unauthorized purchases.
- Unsolicited, Pre-approved credit applications: Unless you plan to take the offer, shred these documents.
- Pay stubs: While many people recommend saving these, it’s really a mistake. Pay stubs contain everything an identity thief needs to open an account. Keep three months of history only if you are planning to apply for a mortgage.
- ATM receipts: Shred all receipts after you check your bank statement for errors or unauthorized charges.
- Canceled checks: Unless they are needed for tax returns or other documentation purposes, canceled checks should be destroyed after one year.
- Retirement plan contributions: Keep records of contributions to non-deductible individual retirement accounts, such as a Roth IRA, indefinitely. Without them, you may find yourself paying taxes again when the money is withdrawn. Some financial institutions keep records of IRA contributions, but it’s best not to count on it.
- Insurance policies, wills and other legal documents: These documents should be kept indefinitely in a secure place, such as a lock-box.
What People Are Saying About PROSHRED®
Guaranteed service, and at a lower cost than at Office Depot. It is, after all, their core business.
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Jim Feaster4/22/2019It is very rare to find a company that actually does what it says it is going to do. To feel like your presence is... read moreIt is very rare to find a company that actually does what it says it is going to do. To feel like your presence is welcome and not just your money. When I contacted Proshred, I just wanted better security protocols for my company but what I got was someone who cared about our company. I got the president of the company to contact me directly. He was the one who sent me the estimate, scheduled the time and showed up at my door. He was so cheerful and passionate about his business. And; that is so rare to find. He gave me a brief overview of the protection that my company should have, delivery details and a quick contract. If I have any issues? I have the direct contact information for the President of the company. That is beautiful!!! It is a small business, but it is definitely worth looking into. I love, love, love the fact that I got a response so quickly and my company feels valued. Thank you!!!! From your friends at Stella & Dot, San Bruno, CA. read less
D N2/08/2014I just came from Proshred in Pleasanton, was greeted so warmly and kindly by the receptionist, gave me instructions on what to do, drove to... read moreI just came from Proshred in Pleasanton, was greeted so warmly and kindly by the receptionist, gave me instructions on what to do, drove to the back of building, was greeted by the owner, I believe April was her name and she was so kind, informing and professional. She took care of the process and reasonably priced, for sure my go to place from now on. read less
Rodney Figueroa6/04/2019We do an annual Shred Event for our real estate business, and this Pro Shred operation is the perfect business partner. Locally owned, Mike and... read moreWe do an annual Shred Event for our real estate business, and this Pro Shred operation is the perfect business partner. Locally owned, Mike and his crew run a top notch business. Professional, the best trucks and equipment, always on time, everyone is so friendly - this is why we love and support local businesses. Keep up the great work! read less
Carol5/23/2017
