 TITLE: How Long Should You Keep Bank Statements? CONTENT: Why Can It Be a Good Idea to Keep Bank Statements?\n--------------------------------------------------\nBank, credit card and investment account statements provide a wealth of information when you're filing your taxes. Use your statements to do the following:\n*   Document payroll deposits, which you can check against the income listed on your W-2.\n*   Verify 1099 income if you do occasional work as an independent contractor or have your own business.\n*   Track mortgage payments, student loan and tuition information, and charitable donations.\n*   Detail investment income and losses as well as retirement account contributions or distributions.\n*   Record business expenses, if any.\nIn addition to reviewing your statements annually at tax time, you should go over them monthly throughout the year. Although you may check your transactions frequently online or by mobile app, your monthly statement is a full accounting of your activity and may show transactions you've previously overlooked. Look for errors: Double-check that your expected deposits have been credited and that there are no unfamiliar or incorrect transactions that might indicate fraud.\nIf you find an inconsistency or evidence of suspected fraud, contact your bank or card company immediately and make a report. Hang on to any relevant statements until the issue is fully resolved. END