What is a P-form?
Everybody in the Netherlands is obligated to pay tax. You have to pay taxes, among other things, on income from work, own residence, savings and investments. Tax returns are filed every year on these taxes. The regular tax return is done using the P-form. This regular tax return is also called the income tax return. With this tax return you declare the income you have earned during the year.
The first year you moved to the Netherlands, you are required to file a migration tax return form (also called the M-form). For the next years, you can file the P-form.
When do you have to file a tax return?
In most cases, The Belastingdienst sends you a letter that you have to file a tax return for the previous year. If you lived in the Netherlands for the whole year, you have to file the P-form. Normally, tax returns must be filed between the 1st of March and 1st of May. Often, everything is already filled in automatically. However, it is always wise to check the precompleted income tax return. Check for example the deductible items, you can sometimes get back paid tax. Even if you did not receive a letter from the Belastingdienst, it is advised to check the precompleted income tax return yourself.
How do you file a tax return?
You can file a tax return via the Belastingdienst. This can be done in different ways:
- The tax return app. Often, it is possible to file your tax return via the application, but not in all cases. For example, if you did not have the same fiscal partner the whole year or if you bought or sold a house.
- Online tax return (‘Mijn Belastingdienst‘).
- The declaration program. This can be downloaded from the digital tax return program of the Belastingdienst.
- The paper tax return form.
- In more complex situations, it is possible to make use of a tax advisor to be sure that you file a correct tax return.
You filed the P-form. What is next?
After you filed the tax return, you will receive a message from the Belastingdienst which says how much tax you have to pay or you will receive. If you get money back, you paid more tax than you owe. The amount will be transferred to your bank account. If you have to pay money, you paid less tax than you owe and you will receive a tax assesment from the Belastingdienst
Too late or an incomplete tax return?
Then, you will risk a ticket. First, the Belastingdienst will send you a reminder to file your tax return again. If you do not do this, you will receive a new reminder with a new date when the tax return must be filed. If you won’t file this in time, you will get a default penalty. If you don’t file your tax return on purpose, you can get an offence penalty.
We are happy to help you!
Do you have any questions about the P-form or about another fiscal issue? Or do you want our help with filling in the P-form? The TaxSavers is happy to help you. Fill in our contact form or give us a call on +31 (0)20 – 2170120.