How long to keep executor paperwork?

[Miljah]

I was an executor of my mother's estate, along with my brother who 'signed' all the work over to me.

She died 5 years ago, all the cash has been distributed, no one is going to crawl out of the woodwork for 'a share'.

I have 2 box files of paperwork, closing accounts, transferring this and that.

How long do I have to hold onto it?

TIA

I would suggest at least 7 years. I will not be getting rid of my father's however for much longer just in case. Eg the tax office can investigate within 6 years (and go back any time I think without limit if there is deliberate evasion|) so this kind of paperwork it can be a good idea to keep for a long period just in case.

My dh was executor for his aunt who died in 2009, we kept the actual executor and power of attorney paperwork and good we did as we needed it last week! Usually I would say 7 years, but at almost 10 we were glad we kept it.

Why did you need it?