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Now that you've started a business in Seattle, make sure that it stays successful by keeping track of your business records. The information and websites below can help inform you about record keeping.

The length of time for keeping business records on file depends upon several factors. Record retention policies should be tailored to the type of business, the type of records involved, and applicable federal and state law. You will find some guidance on retaining records from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Below, you will find information on the most popular types of business records and where to obtain more information:

• For assistance with workplace and labor-related records such as personnel files, job applications, and I-9 forms, contact the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). DOL representatives can explain what documents must be kept on file and for how long each should be retained.
• For help with federal tax records, such as income tax, Social Security and Medicare withholding, receipts for business expenditures, and any records that relate to your federal tax return, contact the IRS.
• For help with state tax records, such as sales taxes, use taxes, and employee withholdings, contact your state Department of Revenue.

In addition, the Small Business Administration (SBA) is available to offer guidance, suggestions, and referrals to appropriate agencies to help small businesses establish their record-keeping systems.

Finally, you may also wish to view information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on protecting your business records and inventory from disasters (.PDF document).

Please note: To view and print .PDF documents, you must use the Adobe Reader software, which is available for download without charge.