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There is a legal requirement to retain records relating to the self assessment tax return. Although it is the taxpayer who must retain the records, it is acceptable for the agent to retain documents on their files, subject to the firm’s internal policy on document retention and data protection.

It is not specified in the legislation in what form the records must be kept (eg electronic records or paper copies). However, there is guidance in the HMRC Compliance Manual on this matter (see below). There is also guidance on the GOV.UK website.

Digital record keeping required under making tax digital (MTD) is discussed at the end of this guidance note.