<prompt> Human: I was going through my file cabinet just trying to organize some things and I found a bunch of old pay stubs. Like 10 years ago, first job when I was 15 kind of old. Now my pay stubs are all online and everything is direct deposited.Is there any reason to keep these old things, or can I just shred them? If there is a reason, how many years prior should I keep in my files? Thanks ahead of time! This sub is always so wonderful 3Assistant: Why not just scan them and make a digital copy and put it with the rest of your electronic pay stubs assuming you keep them?I am not an expert, but I believe the IRS can only audit 3 years back if you are concerned about that or anything.Human: I dont have access to a scanner and it would take forrreeevvverrr if I did. Theres probably close to 1000 pay stubs from various jobs between my husband and I. Thats pretty much what I was looking for, though. So anything further back than 3 years is safe to get rid of then?  <response>: Generally, yes. Unless you really messed up your taxes income off by more than 25 then they can go back as far as 6 years. If you did anything that would show you were intentionally trying to commit fraud then they could theoretically go back unlimited time. Unless you are making some serious cash or own a business in your name and you file through something like Turbo Tax, then you have a VERY low chance of audit. If you are really concerned save 6 years back, but if not then shred away. 