PayStubPro Editorial Team Published July 5, 2026Last reviewed July 5, 20266 min read
Reviewed by the PayStubPro Payroll Standards Team
Quick answer
As a general rule, employers keep basic payroll records for several years, with certain tax-related records retained longer. Federal and state requirements vary, so confirm the periods that apply to your business.
Common retention guidance
- Basic payroll and time records: commonly retained for at least three years
- Records used to compute pay: often kept for two years or more
- Employment tax records: frequently retained for four years or longer
Storage best practices
Store records securely, back them up, and organize by employee and year so you can retrieve documents quickly if needed.
Retention periods are set by federal and state law and can change. Verify current requirements with the relevant agency or a professional.
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Open the PayStubPro application and follow the guided, step-by-step process.
Informational disclaimer: This article is educational and general in nature. It does not constitute payroll, tax, accounting or legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional.