Keep the evidence behind the figures
The FTA requires relevant corporate tax records to be retained for at least seven years after the end of the tax period concerned. Organise the underlying evidence so the figures in a return can be traced to records and supporting documents.
Use a consistent filing structure
Create folders by financial year and document type. Keep accounting reports, transaction support, contracts and relevant correspondence together. Agree a naming convention so your finance team can find a document without depending on one person’s inbox.
Track changes in assets and liabilities
Maintain schedules for significant balances and record explanations for changes. Keep supporting documents for purchases, disposals and financing arrangements. The aim is a reliable connection between the accounting records and the underlying business activity.
Plan the preparation calendar
The FTA’s general filing and payment timeframe is nine months after the end of the tax period. Build an internal calendar that allows for accounts preparation, tax review and approval well before the applicable deadline. Confirm the period and requirements for your own circumstances.
Keep access controlled and recoverable
Limit access to business records to people who need it. Maintain backups and test that important files can be retrieved. A retention policy is useful only when the records remain readable, complete and accessible when needed.
Official source
Federal Tax Authority — Corporate tax records and filing requirements ↗Source checked 19 October 2026. Confirm current requirements for your business before acting.
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