My tax certificate came out negative: what it means and how to fix it
The most common reasons and what to do in each case.
In a nutshell
- A negative certificate means that, for the Tax Office, you're not up to date.
- The usual reasons: an unfiled return or an unpaid debt.
- You fix it by filing or paying what's outstanding, and then you request it again.
You request the certificate of being up to date and it comes out negative. Don't worry: it's almost always for a specific reason that can be fixed.
The most common reasons
- You haven't filed a return: a VAT return, an income tax prepayment or an income tax return.
- You have an outstanding debt, however small (a surcharge, a fine, a bill).
- You had a payment plan and missed an instalment.
- Your registration details don't match the returns you file.
What to do
- 1Read the reasonA negative certificate usually says why it came out that way.
- 2Sort out what's outstandingFile the missing return or pay the debt. If you can't pay, ask for a deferral.
- 3Request it againOnce the Tax Office has it on record, request the certificate again.
An up-to-date payment plan counts as "up to date". If you have a deferred debt and you're paying the instalments, the certificate comes out positive.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to come out positive after paying?
It depends on how you pay. If you pay online or with a payment slip at the bank, it's usually on record within a few days.