What the Announcement Is
On August 12, 2026, the Ministry of Finance (Taiwan) announced that for the fiscal year 2026, profit-seeking enterprises must file their provisional income tax returns between September 1 and September 30. E-filing and tax payment software becomes available on August 15.(mof.gov.tw)
Key Filing Requirements
- Applies to profit-seeking enterprises except those with special fiscal years.
- All supporting documents (investment tax credit certificates, CPA-audited reports, etc.) that require stamps or seals must be in PDF format and uploaded via the e-filing system by September 30.(mof.gov.tw)
- For those who prefer or need to submit paper attachments, documents must be delivered to local branches of the National Taxation Bureau by October 12, 2026.(mof.gov.tw)
Practical Steps for Compliance & Planning
-
Mark your calendar:
- E-filing portal opens August 15 for returns and payment service.
- Provisional tax period: September 1-30.
- Paper-based supporting docs deadline: October 12.
-
Prepare documentation in advance:
- CPA reports, investment tax credits, and certified statements stamped under signature must be digitised (PDF).
- Identify all deductions and credits you may claim under Provisional Income Tax rules.
-
Ensure digital readiness:
- Access to secure e-auth methods needed (e.g., MOF Portal certificates).
- Confirm that you and your business information (tax ID, branch, fiscal year) are correct in the tax bureau’s system.
-
Avoid last-minute issues:
- File early—upload before September 30 to avoid system downtime.
- Double-check that PDFs are legible and properly stamped/sealed.
- If paper docs needed, use reliable courier or local branch drop-off well ahead of October 12.
Examples & Calculations
- Enterprise A with standard fiscal year ending December 31 prepares provisional return in September, submits everything via e-filing by September 30.
- Enterprise B uses fiscal year ending April 30 (special fiscal year): needs to check if relief or exemption applies—this rule excludes special fiscal years from the standard filing timeline.
Strategic Advice
- Cash-flow planning: provisional tax payment in advance may require setting aside funds; early filing avoids surprises.
- Credit maximisation: ensure investment tax credits are claimed timely and properly evidenced.
- Audit readiness: maintain accurate books, have CPA reports ready; if online submission is compromised, fallback is paper by October 12.
- Stay updated: MOF may issue clarifications or guides ahead of September. Watch MOF notification channels.
For profit-seeking enterprises, this provisional filing presents an opportunity to manage tax liability proactively. With proper preparation, required digital infrastructure, and adherence to deadlines, the process can be smooth and cost-efficient.