Retain e-file records and documents
Retain e-file records, acknowledgment files, and signature documents for the required time periods based on IRS requirements.
Retain this information until the end of the calendar year you filed the return, or until 9 months after the fiscal year of filing.
- A copy of the signed IRS e-file consent to disclosure forms for taxpayers who signed using a scanned signature form (Form 8453).
- A copy of the electronic portion of the return you converted into an e-file transmission for the IRS.
- The acknowledgment file for IRS accepted returns.
- The acknowledgment for all extensions.
Retain form 8879-PE for 3 years from the due date or IRS received date, whichever is later.
E-filers who originate their own returns need to retain all information that a taxpayer would retain for the time period.
Providers can image and store all paper records they must retain for IRS e-file. This includes signed signature documents and any supporting documents not included in the e-file. This storage system must satisfy the requirements of Revenue Procedure 97-22, Retention of Books and Records.
