--- title: Keeping receipts and records description: Keeping receipts and records --- [Skip to content](https://help.1stformations.co.uk/accounting-service/keeping-receipts-and-records#main-content) [![image 4](https://help.1stformations.co.uk/hubfs/image%204.svg)](https://www.1stformations.co.uk/) - [Help Centre](https://help.1stformations.co.uk/) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Help Centre](https://help.1stformations.co.uk/) - [Login](https://www.1stformations.co.uk/login/) [Login](https://www.1stformations.co.uk/login/) How can we help you? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Accounting Service](https://help.1stformations.co.uk/accounting-service?hsLang=en-gb) 2. [Bookkeeping Basics](https://help.1stformations.co.uk/accounting-service/bookkeeping-basics?hsLang=en-gb) 3. [Day-to-Day Bookkeeping Workflow](https://help.1stformations.co.uk/accounting-service/bookkeeping-basics?hsLang=en-gb#day-to-day-bookkeeping-workflow) # Keeping receipts and records ## A guide to keeping receipts and records, which are required by HMRC HMRC requires you to retain evidence of every business transaction for six years. Digital records stored in or linked to Xero satisfy this requirement. ### The easiest approach Use the Xero app to photograph receipts immediately after purchase. The app reads the receipt and creates a draft bill entry in Xero. Attach it to the corresponding transaction and approve. This takes under a minute per receipt and creates a permanent digital record. ### For invoices received by email Forward supplier invoices and PDF bills directly to your unique Xero Bills email address. Xero creates a draft bill entry. Review and approve. This keeps your inbox clear and attaches the document automatically. ### What you must not do Do not rely solely on bank statements as your records. HMRC requires the original invoices and receipts as evidence, not just proof of payment. A bank transaction without an attached document is incomplete. 💡 **Good to know:** Paper receipts can be discarded once a clear digital photograph has been attached to the transaction in Xero. HMRC accepts digital records in place of originals, provided they are legible and complete. ### Not found what you're looking for? 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