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PRESS RELEASE

(Source : Government Information Centre)

Deadline nears for filing tax returns

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Taxpayers who have not yet filed their individual tax returns should submit their returns on or before June 3, an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) spokesman said today (May 27). For sole proprietors, the filing deadline is August 3.

Taxpayers can visit the IRD homepage (www.ird.gov.hk) for the demonstration on the completion of tax return and other relevant information. During May, they can also call 187 8022 or 187 8222 for enquiries (8.30am to 7pm on weekdays and 9am to 5pm on Saturdays).

Other than paper returns, taxpayers can file their individual tax returns electronically through the Internet or a touch-tone phone. This year, the Internet filing process has been made easier and simpler after taking into account feedback from more than 20,000 users. Besides upgrading the system performance and redesigning the screen flow, more than 40 new functions or improvements were introduced. Main features include "Pre-filling of data", "Estimation of salaries tax payable", "Saving of data" and "Viewing and printing". A two-week automatic extension of time is offered for taxpayers who file tax returns through the Internet or telephone.

"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 two-week 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 follow the steps given in the leaflet enclosed with the tax return and lodge the application on the web (www.esd.gov.hk) or call the Automated Telephone Registration Hotline at 183 2033. An Access Code will be sent 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/Friday, May 27, 2005

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