Over the past four years, the number of electronic tax declarations in Portugal has risen from 306 000 to 1.57 million. The 1.57 million figure represents an increase of 38.63 % in comparison with the previous year. From 306 000 in 2003, the number of on-line declarations rose to 441 000 in 2004 and some 782 000 in 2005. Further increases are expected, as the number of tax categories for which on-line services are available is being expanded and the deadline for submissions is being extended to 25 May.
To join the electronic service, taxpayers fill in an on-line form. They then receive, by post, at their tax address, a password giving them access to services on the Electronic Declarations site. The range of services available has expanded rapidly. Operations that can now be performed on-line include changes of address, consultation of current tax status, applications for various tax certificates, validation of documents, certain changes in VAT status, responses to notices of distraint or seizure, downloading and printing out a range of forms, checking the legislation, demystifying tax jargon and even bidding for a second-hand car being sold off by a tax office.
The same site lets you run a simulation to calculate the tax implications of buying a certain property. There is also a calendar giving the deadlines for various tax returns, including income tax, local taxes and VAT. The aim is to provide a one-stop shop for all aspects of taxation.
