How Long Must I Keep Invoices?
Keep your invoices and related records for the retention period the ATO sets. Different record types can have different periods, so confirm the current rules.
In this answer
- Understand why invoice retention matters
- Know that different records can have different periods
- Learn what 'keeping' a record actually means
- Find out where to confirm the periods
4 min
Why retention matters
Both the invoices you issue and the tax invoices you receive are part of your business records, and the ATO expects you to keep them for a set period. The invoices you send back up the income you report; the tax invoices you receive support any GST credits you claim. If the ATO ever reviews your affairs and you cannot produce the relevant records, claims can be disallowed and your position weakens.
Treating retention as routine rather than an afterthought protects you. The exact length of time records must be kept is set by the ATO, so use the points below as practical guidance and confirm the current periods rather than relying on a number from an old article.
Different records, different periods
Not every record is kept for the same length of time. The retention period can differ between, for example, general business and GST records on one hand and payroll and employment records on the other, which often need to be kept longer because of superannuation and workplace obligations. Other categories, such as records relating to assets you may later sell, can need to be kept well beyond the usual period because they matter whenever the asset is eventually disposed of.
The specific periods for each record type are set by the ATO and can change, so do not assume a single figure covers everything. Confirm the period that applies to each kind of record with the ATO or your accountant.
What 'keeping' a record means
Keeping a record is not just hoarding files — the ATO expects records to be legible, complete and able to be produced reasonably quickly if asked. Electronic records are generally accepted, including scanned copies, provided they are a true and clear reproduction you can retrieve. In practice that means storing invoices somewhere reliable with backups, naming files consistently, and being able to find a given invoice without a treasure hunt. A box of faded paper you cannot search may not meet the standard even if technically you still 'have' it.
Make retention painless
Saving each invoice as a PDF when you create it builds your archive automatically. Our free invoice tools let you do that, and what records you need for the ATO covers the wider picture.
This is general information only, not tax or legal advice. Record-keeping periods are set by the ATO and can change — confirm the current periods with the ATO or your accountant.
Key takeaways
- Keep both the invoices you issue and the tax invoices you receive.
- Different record types can have different retention periods.
- Payroll and asset records often need to be kept longer than general records.
- Records must be legible and able to be produced promptly.
- Confirm the current periods with the ATO or your accountant.
Frequently asked questions
Can I throw away paper invoices once they're scanned?
Generally yes, if the scan is a true, clear and legible copy you can retrieve. Make sure the digital version is complete. Confirm anything specific with the ATO or your accountant.
Do all records have the same retention period?
No. Periods can differ by record type, and payroll records often need to be kept longer. Confirm the period for each type with the ATO or your accountant.
What if I lose records in a fire or flood?
Contact the ATO promptly — they may accept alternative evidence where records are lost outside your control. Speak to your accountant as well.
Build a compliant invoice in minutes
Use the free Invoice Generator, then let Merion recover anything that goes unpaid — commission-only.