How long do I need to keep business records as a sole trader?
Facts last checked
Transcript
How long do I need to keep business records as a sole trader? Keep your business records for at least 5 years after the 31 January filing deadline. For the 2025-26 tax year, due online by 31 January 2027, that means until at least the end of January 2032. The online deadline for 2025-26 is 31 January 2027, so keep the records until at least the end of January 2032. Yes. The law treats letting property as carrying on a trade for record-keeping, so landlords keep records for at least 5 years after the 31 January deadline too. Yes. The law says records can be kept in any form and by any means. CIS statements must be kept as the statement itself, which can be a scan or PDF, not just figures typed into software. Read the full answer, with every source, at rightotax.co.uk.
Voice and visuals made with automated software, including AI.
Read the full answer, with every source
The one-minute version
Transcript
How long do I need to keep business records as a sole trader? Keep your business records for at least 5 years after the 31 January filing deadline. For the 2025-26 tax year, due online by 31 January 2027, that means until at least the end of January 2032. The online deadline for 2025-26 is 31 January 2027, so keep the records until at least the end of January 2032. Read the full answer, with every source, at rightotax.co.uk.
Voice and visuals made with automated software, including AI.
This is general information to help you understand the rules. It isn't tailored to your circumstances, so check your own position before acting on it.
Righto Tax is a trading name of NJG Consultancy Ltd, registered in England and Wales, company number 16095900. Registered office: Jubilee House, East Beach, Lytham St Annes, FY8 5FT.