Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with a data retention framework that enforces archive eligibility criteria beyond a simple retention period are described. In one embodiment, a method includes identifying a record that has been stored in a primary data store for at least a retention period prescribed for the record and evaluating the record to determine if archive eligibility criteria for the record are met. When the archive eligibility criteria is met, the record is marked as eligible for archiving. When the archive eligibility criteria is not met, the record is marked as not eligible for archiving.