The Inland Revenue Department today announced that it will waive surcharges for payment of tax by instalments for businesses and individuals in need.

The department made the statement following the issuance of tax demand notes for the 2019-20 assessment year starting today.

It explained that taxpayers who have financial difficulties in settling their tax bills on time may apply for payment by instalments before the due dates of the demand notes.

For those who have obtained approval for instalment settlement of demand notes for salaries tax, profits tax and personal assessment for the 2019-20 assessment year issued between August this year and August 2021, no surcharge will be imposed for up to one year counted from the due dates, provided that the instalment plans are duly adhered to.

However, this support measure is not applicable to individuals who have to settle their tax liabilities before departing Hong Kong and taxpayers paying property tax.

Visit the department's website or call 187 8033 for details.