How long should I keep tax receipts?

In most cases, keep tax records for 5 years from the date you lodge the tax return.

Last updated: 7 July 2026. General information for Australian tradies. Not personal tax advice.

What to keep

Keep receipts, invoices, bank statements, supplier account history, logbooks, phone-use diaries, home office hour records, and ABN invoices.

Photos and electronic copies can be acceptable if they are clear and show the details needed to prove the claim.

Vehicle logbooks, asset depreciation records and ABN/GST records may need careful storage because they support claims across multiple years.

Download the calculator PDF as a summary, but keep original receipts and records separately.