Keep records for 6 years
What to keep, for how long, and how CollabNorth keeps it for you.
CRA can ask to see your records to back up your tax returns. Generally, you must keep them for six years from the end of the tax year they relate to. For a sole proprietor, the tax year is the calendar year, so 2026 records are kept until the end of 2032.
What to keep
- Invoices you send and receive.
- Receipts for expenses.
- Bank and credit card statements.
- Your logbook, if you claim a vehicle.
- Contracts, estimates and anything that supports a deduction.
Some records need to be kept longer, such as records about property you own for many years. If you file a return late, keep its records six years from the day you file it.
Paper or photos?
Electronic copies are fine, as long as they are clear and complete and you can produce them when asked.
What CollabNorth keeps
- Every invoice, estimate, credit note and receipt you send, with the PDF stored as issued.
- Receipt photos attached to your expenses.
- Imported bank lines.
Download all of it at any time with Export everything in Settings. Keep a copy somewhere safe. See Export everything.
Don't destroy records early
To destroy records before the six years are up, you need written permission from CRA.
This is general information to help you keep your own records. It is not tax or legal advice.
Based on: CRA: Where to keep your records, for how long and how to request permission to destroy them early
Last checked: 2026-10-12