How long do you need to keep receipts for tax in Australia?

Updated 2026-10-15 · Australia

Short answer

Generally five years from the date you lodge your tax return. For depreciating assets, keep records for five years from the last time you claim a decline in value. Clear digital copies (like photos) are acceptable, and the ATO's myDeductions tool in the ATO app can store them.

What counts as a record

Receipts, invoices, bank statements showing the purchase, and for work-from-home claims, a record of the hours you actually worked from home.

A simple system

  1. Mark tax-deductible categories in your budget.
  2. At the end of each quarter, list those transactions.
  3. Tick off each one when you've saved its receipt.

Sorted Budget's Tax Time tab builds that checklist for the financial year automatically.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep photos instead of paper?

Yes, as long as they're clear and complete copies.

Does the 70 cents per hour method need records?

Yes. You need a record of the actual hours you worked from home; an estimate isn't accepted.

Sources

Last checked 2026-10-15.