BIR eases tax payment in typhoon-hit areas

The Bureau of Internal Revenue main office in Quezon City. (File photo from Philippine Daily Inquirer)

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has made it easier for taxpayers to settle their tax dues despite the damage wrought by Typhoon “Odette” on their livelihoods and properties.

In an advisory, Internal Revenue Commissioner Caesar Dulay said taxpayers affected by the typhoon may file their returns and pay corresponding taxes at the closest BIR-authorized agent-banks outside of the revenue district office where they were registered.

They may also remit taxes through revenue collection officers nearest to them, Dulay said.

“Due to the slow and intermittent internet connections due to Typhoon ‘Odette,’ eFPS and eBIRForms taxpayers/users may manually file returns and pay the corresponding taxes due thereon,” Dulay said, referring to the electronic tax-payment channels, which may not be accessible in typhoon-battered areas.

“No penalty shall be imposed for the wrong venue filing of returns and payment of taxes,” Dulay assured. —Ben O. de Vera