how long do banks keep records?

[tatt]

I may need to supply Inland Revenue with proof of purchases made in 1997. I know I'm not required to have kept records before April 1998 but I don't trust them not to query things. Will a bank still have records of payments from pre April 1998 and will it make any difference if the account has since been closed? Had two bank accounts around then and only one still open.

bump - anyone?

I think it is 21 years minimum, but there were changes in 1998 when data protection came in but you stand a good chance.

wow - 21 years! They don't legally have to keep records that long. Thanks for the response but anyone else who works for a bank?

I used to tatt - been left over 5 years now, but from my fast fading memories you can order statements from up to 10 years back, cheques and stuff, 3 or maybe 5 years and anything tax related 10 years.

thanks potty1 a statement wouldn't show who the cheque was paid out to but I guess that's too much to expect after this length of time. Expect they'll want a fortune for it too