Michael McGrath
Question:194. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will ensure that every person who pays the local property tax by whatever means is issued with a receipt as proof of payment. [20150/13]
View answerTuesday, 30 April 2013
Questions (194)
Written answers
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that since July 2011 paper receipts no longer issue in respect of tax payments. This decision was taken on the basis that the vast majority of taxpayers conduct business with Revenue via its online service. The online service facilitates direct access to payment information and therefore customers have no need for a paper receipt. The change has resulted in significant cost savings in terms of postage, stationery and staff resources. This arrangement now applies to Local Property Tax (LPT) and customers who file online receive an online acknowledgement and have ongoing access to their return and payment details. Customers who file and pay using the paper LPT return will not receive a paper receipt. They will of course have evidence of LPT payments through their own financial institution records. However, in circumstances where a payment fails for whatever reason, then Revenue will make direct contact with the customer. I am also advised that, where customers opt to pay LPT using one of the Revenue appointed third party payment service providers, receipts will issue for each payment made. The appointed payment service providers are An Post Taxpay, Payzone and Omnivend.