Do I always have to claim input tax in the same month that I have paid it?
August 31, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Phillip Buchner
Dear tax advisor,
I have a question regarding input tax deduction. I am self-employed and have recently made some purchases for which I have paid input tax. Now I am wondering if I always have to claim the input tax in the same month in which I paid it, or if it is also possible to claim the input tax at a later date.
I have always tried to claim the input tax in the same month in which I received and paid the invoice. However, I have recently noticed that it can sometimes be difficult to book all invoices in a timely manner and declare the input tax correctly. Therefore, I am wondering if it is also possible to declare the input tax at a later date as part of the VAT return.
I am concerned that I may make mistakes in declaring the input tax and thereby risk additional payments or penalties. Therefore, I am looking for a solution that allows me to book and declare the input tax more flexibly in order to avoid any potential errors.
Can you please explain to me if I always have to claim the input tax in the same month or if it is also possible to declare the input tax at a later date? Are there any specific deadlines or regulations that I need to follow to avoid errors in declaring the input tax?
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Eva Ziegler
Dear Mrs. Ziegler,
Thank you for your question regarding input tax deduction. It is understandable that you are concerned about how to correctly record and declare input tax to avoid potential errors. I am happy to explain to you how you can proceed.
In principle, you must claim input tax in the same reporting period in which you have received and paid the invoice. This means that if you receive and pay an invoice in January, you should declare the input tax in the VAT return for January. This procedure is important to ensure the correct calculation of VAT.
However, there is also the option to correct the input tax at a later date if you have only recorded or overlooked an invoice later. In this case, you can amend the input tax in the VAT return for the corresponding reporting period. It is important to do this promptly and correctly to correct any errors and avoid additional payments.
There are no fixed deadlines or regulations that you must adhere to in order to declare input tax. However, it is advisable to regularly and promptly record input tax to keep track of it and avoid potential errors. If you have difficulty recording all invoices on time, you can introduce a reasonable time management system and update your accounting regularly.
If you are unsure whether you have correctly recorded the input tax, I recommend seeking advice from a tax advisor who can assist you with declaring input tax. A professional tax advisor can help you identify and correct any errors to avoid additional payments or penalties.
I hope this information is helpful to you and answers your question regarding input tax deduction. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Phillip Buchner
