What happens if I do not submit my sales tax return on time?
October 18, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Emma Wagner
Dear tax advisor,
I have a question regarding my VAT return. I have realized that I missed the deadline for submitting my VAT return and now I am wondering what consequences this could have for me.
Background information: I am self-employed and run a small business that is required to pay VAT. Normally, I submit my VAT return on time, but this time I unfortunately did not manage to do so in time. I am worried about what impact this could have on my tax situation.
I am wondering if there are any penalties for not submitting the VAT return on time. Additionally, I would like to know if there are ways to extend the deadline or if I can submit the VAT return retrospectively.
I would be very grateful if you could assist me with this matter and provide me with possible solutions.
Thank you in advance.
Kind regards,
Lukas Ehrenbreit
Dear Mr. Ehrenbreit,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your missed sales tax declaration. It is understandable that you are concerned about possible consequences. Let me first say that indeed there can be penalties if the sales tax declaration is not submitted on time. The exact sanctions can vary depending on the individual situation, but typically late payment interest and late filing penalties are due.
The amount of these penalties depends on the timing of the late submission and can increase depending on the duration of the delay. It is therefore important that you submit your sales tax declaration as soon as possible to avoid further costs.
Regarding an extension of the deadline, there is the possibility to apply for an extension of the submission deadline. However, this application must be justified and it is at the discretion of the relevant tax authority whether this application will be granted. It is advisable to contact your local tax office immediately and explain your situation.
If you have already missed the sales tax declaration, it is still important to submit it as soon as possible. Even if there are penalties looming, it is better to submit the declaration retrospectively than not to act at all. The sooner you act, the lower the penalties usually are.
I strongly recommend that you contact a tax advisor or directly your tax office to clarify your individual situation and discuss possible solutions. Timely submission of the sales tax declaration is crucial to avoid further financial burdens.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available to clarify any further questions.
Sincerely,
Emma Wagner
