26 CFR 1.6001-1(e): records are retained so long as they may become material (26 CFR 1.6001-1(e))
The income tax regulation sets no fixed number of years: records stay as long as they could still matter to the IRS, which in practice means until the assessment period for the return closes.
Dated 31 Oct 2026Source checked 31 Oct 2026Basis: primary text
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In the source's own words
“The books or records required by this section shall be kept at all times available for inspection by authorized internal revenue officers or employees, and shall be retained so long as the contents thereof may become material in the administration of any internal revenue law.”
Where it was read
Figures it counts in
It is shown on its own, not counted into a figure.
Cited in this guide