Paul McGrath
Question:57 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of tax rebates still to be repaid to companies and self-employed; and if he will consider allowing these rebates to be offset against preliminary tax liabilities.
Written Answers. - Tax Rebates.
The Revenue Commissioners estimate that the level of apparent overpayments on hands in tax offices is as follows:
|
Number of apparent overpayments |
|
|
Companies |
1,900 |
|
Self employed 1988-89 |
3,500 |
|
1989-90 |
11,000 |
It should be noted that the above figures do not represent established overpayments. Further investigation is necessary to establish if a repayment is due. In the case of 1989-90 the 1990 tax return may be required to finally compute any refund due.
Most of the apparent overpayments for companies are on hands for a short period, i.e., less than one month.
The turnaround time for dealing with apparent overpayments for the self employed has improved dramatically since new administrative procedures were introduced in the autumn. The vast majority of the repayments now on hands are for relatively small amounts. Many of the 1989-90 cases may eventually be found not to be overpaid when the 1990 tax return details become available.
The Revenue Commissioners do not, as a matter of general practice, hold repayments for setting against preliminary tax. They consider that, primarily from the taxpayer's point of view, it is preferable that the tax liability for each year of assessment be kept separate for payment purposes. However, any taxpayer who wishes to have an agreed repayment set against his/her preliminary tax can be facilitated. Such a request would normally be dealt with by the appropriate inspector of taxes.