Document retention laws govern the types of documents businesses need to keep, as well as the length of time these documents must remain in storage. The retention of some documents are covered by federal laws, and others by state laws. In Los Angeles, as in the rest of California, different laws cover document retention rules for every industry, particularly for medical practices, the construction industry, and the education industry. Once the minimum period required to retain a document has elapsed, a Los Angles company is required by law to thoroughly destroy those that contain personal information on employees and customers. Document destruction laws are very stringent, so it is highly advisable for businesses to engage professional shredding in Los Angeles to make sure the job is done correctly. Reputable shredding companies can also help manage a company's document retention program. Documents To Keep Some of the documents that need to be retained include tax records and business organization records. HR records including payroll and health records also have to be kept for a certain period. The duration for the retention of these documents may vary by industry and business type, so it is best to consult a lawyer for guidance. Documents to Destroy Once an employee leaves a company, documents bearing their private information will need to be kept for a certain time, after which the documents have to be destroyed. Private information can consist of the employee's name, address, medical records, and employment history. Laws require that these documents be totally destroyed before they are thrown away. Document Retention Practices A company should develop an efficient system for document retention that will be implemented across its various departments. The guidelines covering this system should first take into account all the federal and state legal requirements for document retention. Any other guidelines after these legal requirements may be formulated according to the company's needs. Document Inventory and Destruction Keeping an accurate inventory of retained records and documents at all times, as well as scheduling document destruction, should be part of a company's document retention practice. Reputable Los Angeles shredding companies can help with the destruction process, along with inventory keeping and management. To find out more about document retention practices, visit ehow.com/list_6548535_practices-document-retention.html.
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