Taxpayers reminded to file ITRs ahead of April deadline

CEBU, Philippines – As early as now, the Bureau of Internal Revenue is reminding the taxpaying public to file their income tax returns (ITR), months before the April 15 deadline.

BIR-Revenue Region 13 Director Hermeno Palamine made this call to taxpayers yesterday, urging them not to wait for the filing deadline.

Taxpayers must file and pay as early as possible to avoid the inconvenience of late filing, the official stressed.

The revenue agency earlier reminded all manual and electronic tax filers as well as accredited tax agents using electronic BIR forms (eBIRForms) and Electronic Filing and Payment System (eFPS) to download their latest versions and start filing early.

Palamine said more taxpayers may be expected to use the agency’s online system this year.

Those who fail to file and pay their tax dues on or before the April 15 deadline are imposed with a 25% surcharge, 20% interest per year and extra charge on the basic tax.

BIR-13 will officially kick off the tax filing season on March 11. (FREEMAN)