Am I required to keep a copy of the return filed as proof and for how long?

Retention of tax returns: retain a copy as evidence because proceedings may be initiated for prior years.

Taxpayers must retain a copy of the filed income tax return because legal proceedings under the Income tax Act can be initiated for past years; retention provides proof of filing and, together with supporting documents, assists in responding to assessments or inquiries, and e filing simplifies maintaining and accessing these records.