do i need to keep physical copies of documents or are digital copies acceptable 
it is generally acceptable to maintain digital copies of documents for tax purposes however it is important to be able to prove the authenticity of these digital records especially in the context of a potential audit also ensure that digital copies are stored securely remain unaltered and can be readily accessed when needed the bottom linea tax return is a document filed with the tax authorities that reports income expenses and other relevant financial information to calculate and pay taxes it is recommended to keep tax returns for at least three to seven years to comply with potential audit requirements and the period of limitations for tax amendments 