Tax Deadlines Every Irish Business Owner Should Know

Staying on top of tax deadlines is essential for Irish business owners to avoid unnecessary penalties and ensure compliance with Revenue requirements. Whether you’re a sole trader, a limited company, or managing payroll for a team, understanding key tax dates can save you time, stress, and money.

In this blog, we outline the critical tax deadlines every business owner should know and share practical advice on staying compliant.

1. PAYE/PRSI/USC Returns

If you’re an employer, you must submit monthly PAYE (Pay As You Earn), PRSI (Pay-Related Social Insurance), and USC (Universal Social Charge) returns.

Deadline: Returns are due by the 14th of each month. If you file using the Revenue Online Service (ROS), you get an extended deadline of the 23rd of each month.
Why It Matters: Missing deadlines can lead to penalties, interest, and complications with your payroll reporting obligations.

Tip: Partnering with a tax expert like Intax.ie ensures accurate and timely reporting.

2. Value-Added Tax (VAT) Returns

VAT returns are a significant obligation for businesses registered for VAT in Ireland.

Bi-Monthly Returns: The standard VAT reporting period is every two months, with returns due by the 19th of the following month (or the 23rd for ROS users).
Annual VAT Return: Some businesses may qualify for an annual VAT return, with the deadline set to the 19th of the month following the end of the accounting period.

Why It Matters: Late or incorrect VAT filings can result in fines or audits.

Tip: Small businesses can benefit from VAT schemes like the Cash Basis Accounting Scheme or Flat Rate VAT Scheme to manage cash flow and simplify reporting. Contact Intax.ie to see if your business qualifies.

3. Corporation Tax Deadlines

For limited companies in Ireland, corporation tax deadlines are crucial for compliance and cash flow management.

Preliminary Tax: Due by the 23rd of the month preceding the end of your accounting period. For instance, if your accounting year ends on December 31st, preliminary tax is due by November 23rd.
Corporation Tax Return (Form CT1): This return is due 9 months after the end of your accounting period, no later than the 23rd of that month.

Why It Matters: Corporation tax delays or underpayments can lead to significant interest charges.

Tip: Regular financial reviews with an accountant ensure your corporation tax is accurately calculated and submitted on time.

4. Relevant Contracts Tax (RCT)

If you operate in the construction, forestry, or meat processing industries, RCT applies to payments made to subcontractors.

Deadline: Monthly RCT returns are due by the 23rd of the following month.

Why It Matters: Non-compliance with RCT can lead to penalties, interest, and complications with subcontractors.

5. Income Tax for Self-Employed Individuals

Self-employed individuals, proprietary directors, and landlords need to pay close attention to income tax deadlines:

Preliminary Tax: Due by October 31st each year. For those filing and paying online through ROS, the deadline typically extends to mid-November.
Income Tax Return (Form 11): Also due by October 31st, or the extended ROS deadline.

Why It Matters: Late returns or payments result in automatic surcharges and interest charges.

Tip: Set calendar reminders and engage with a tax consultant like Intax.ie to streamline self-assessment filings and minimize tax liabilities.

6. Employers’ PAYE Reporting (Real-Time Reporting)

In Ireland, employers are required to submit their PAYE (Pay As You Earn) payments by the 14th of each month for the previous month’s payroll. However, if these returns and payments are made electronically through the Revenue Online Service (ROS), the deadline is extended to the 23rd of the month.

Why It Matters: Missing this real-time reporting obligation can result in penalties and compliance risks.

Tip: Use payroll software or consult a tax specialist to ensure accuracy and timely reporting.

7. Local Property Tax (LPT)

Businesses that own commercial or residential property must meet annual LPT deadlines:

Annual Payment: Due by January 1st each year.

Why It Matters: Non-compliance can lead to enforcement actions, including withholding of tax clearance certificates.

8. Companies Registration Office (CRO) Deadlines

For limited companies, annual returns to the CRO are mandatory.

First Return: Due 6 months after incorporation.
Subsequent Returns: Required annually.

Why It Matters: Late filings can incur penalties and risk the loss of audit exemption, which can be costly.

How Intax.ie Can Help You Stay Ahead

Managing multiple tax deadlines can feel overwhelming, but proactive planning and expert guidance make it easier. At Intax.ie, we provide tailored solutions to help Irish businesses:

Monitor and meet critical tax deadlines.
Ensure accurate and timely filings for PAYE, VAT, Corporation Tax, and more.
Reduce compliance stress so you can focus on growing your business.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Tax Deadlines Catch You Off Guard

Staying on top of your tax obligations is vital for maintaining compliance, avoiding penalties, and ensuring the financial health of your business. Proactively managing deadlines can save you significant stress and money in the long run.

Need a reliable partner to handle your tax obligations? Let Intax.ie take the stress out of tax compliance. Our expert team will ensure you never miss a deadline, helping your business stay compliant and efficient.

📞 Contact Intax.ie today and secure your financial peace of mind!