PRESS RELEASE

Deadline for filing tax returns approaching

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Taxpayers who have not yet filed their individual tax returns should submit their returns on or before June 2, an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) spokesman said today (May 29). The filing deadline for sole proprietors is August 2.

Enclosed with the tax return is a "Guide to Tax Return – Individuals". Taxpayers can refer to the guide for answers to most of their questions on completion. If they need further assistance, they can visit the IRD homepage (www.ird.gov.hk) or call 187 8022 for enquiries.

As an alternative to paper returns, taxpayers can file their individual tax returns
electronically through the Internet or a touch-tone phone. This year, the Internet filing functions have been upgraded. In addition to the direct linkage to IRD homepage for viewing tax rates and allowances, plenty of useful filling tips and enhanced functions were introduced. Main features include "Pre-filling of data", "Estimation of salaries tax payable", "Saving of data" and "Viewing and printing". An automatic extension of one month to July 3 is granted to last year's e-filers. First-time e-filers will also be granted a two-week extension to June 16.

"If taxpayers cannot submit their tax returns within the normal due date of one month from its issue date, they can switch to e-filing and make use of the automatic extension to avoid penalty on late submission", the spokesman said.

E-filing requires the use of a digital certificate or an e-Tax Password. Registration for an e-Tax Password is simple. Just lodge the application on the web (www.esd.gov.hk) or call the Automated Telephone Registration Hotline at 183 2033 and enter the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) (as printed on the front page of the tax return) and Hong Kong Identity Card number. An Access Code will be issued to the registrants by post within three working days.

Demonstrations on Internet filing and further information on e-filing are now available on the IRD homepage. Taxpayers can visit the homepage or call 187 8011 for enquiries.

Ends/Monday, May 29, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:22

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