What retention period is applied to records not authorized for a specific disposition?

When records are not authorized for a specific disposition, they are classified as having a permanent retention period. This classification signifies the importance and necessity of these records for future reference, legal, or historical purposes. Permanent records must be preserved indefinitely and are often those that document significant actions, decisions, or events that have lasting value.

Such records are essential to ensure accountability, provide evidence of operations and activities, and maintain a comprehensive historical record of various functions within the organization. The designation of permanence helps ensure that these vital records are maintained and accessible for as long as they are needed, standing in contrast to temporary records, which have defined retention periods after which they can be appropriately disposed of.

In the context of organizational records management, understanding the need for permanent retention reinforces the commitment to maintaining critical documentation and supporting transparency, compliance, and efficient retrieval of information in the future.