What the Bizkaia Tax Office compliance certificate is and what it's for
The document that shows you don't owe the Tax Office anything. You're asked for it for grants, public contracts, subcontracting and banks.
In a nutshell
- It's the document that says you're up to date with the Bizkaia Tax Office.
- You're asked for it for grants, public contracts, subcontracting and by some banks.
- If it comes out negative, it says what's missing: you fix it and request it again.
If you've ever been asked for "a Tax Office certificate" for a grant, a contract or the bank, they were almost certainly talking about this one. Here's what it is, what it's for and how to get it without hassle.
What it is
It's a document from the Bizkaia Tax Office (Hacienda Foral de Bizkaia) saying you're up to date with your obligations: you've filed the returns you had to and you have no outstanding debts (or they're deferred and up to date). Its official name is «certificado de estar al corriente de las obligaciones tributarias».
It's called "positive" when it says everything is in order. If something is missing, it comes out "negative" and explains why.
What you might be asked for it for
- Grants and subsidies: almost every call asks for it before paying you.
- Public sector contracts: to take part in a public tender.
- Working as a subcontractor: the company hiring you asks for it so it isn't liable for your debts.
- Banks and financing: some ask for it for a loan or a credit line.
How to get it
- 1Check you're up to dateMake sure no return is missing and you have no unpaid or undeferred debts.
- 2Request itOn the Bizkaia Tax Office online portal, with a digital certificate or B@kQ, or at an office with an appointment.
- 3Download it and hand it inIt's a PDF with a code so whoever receives it can check it's genuine.
What if it comes out negative?
It's nothing serious: the certificate says what's missing. Usually it's an unfiled return or a small debt. You fix it by filing what's missing or paying (or deferring), and then you request it again.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take?
If you're up to date, it's issued straight away. With us you get it the same day, without having to use the online portal.
Is it the same as the Social Security certificate?
No. That one is issued by Social Security and says whether you're up to date with your contributions. Many grants ask for both.
How is it different from the tax status certificate?
The tax status certificate says which taxes you're registered for. The compliance certificate says whether you're up to date. We explain it in another article.