

If you’re using another tax prep software package, make sure to check the Help files or online support documentation for instructions on saving and exporting your tax data files. TaxAct also offers instructions for TaxAct file backup. Intuit offers instructions on its web site to perform a TurboTax file backup. The important thing is that you can look at the information you’ve submitted without needing proprietary software. A read-only format like PDF will do the job. And to be extra safe, export it to a universal format.

If you’re using TurboTax or another app to prepare this year’s taxes, make sure to save a copy of your tax data file on your device. Prepare Backups From Your Tax Prep Software Don’t let data insecurity add to your tax season stress: make sure your digital tax files and any supporting documentation are well-protected with these tips. So how long should you keep your tax records? The IRS recommends you keep records for up to 7 years. The last thing you need is a hassle with the IRS or your state’s Department of Revenue because you’ve lost or misplaced necessary paperwork.

Just filing taxes can be stressful enough.
