Taxation of Couriers
Revenue has recently clarified the taxation of couriers, specifically the tax treatment of motor cycle and bicycle couriers. The following treatment applies from 1 January 2019. Previous agreements will come to an end on this date.
Motor cycle and bicycle couriers are generally engaged under a contract for service i.e. they are self-employed individuals. Whilst the facts of each case may differ, this is the general view adopted by Revenue.
From 1 January 2019 motor cycle and bicycle couriers engaged under a contract for service i.e. self-employed individuals, will need to file a tax return self-assessment.
Expenses
Self-employed couriers can make a claim for any expenditure incurred wholly and exclusively for the purpose of their courier activity, for example, motor expenses & telephone/internet bills.
Revenue’s previous agreement of flat rate deductions for expenses (20%,40% or 45%) will no longer apply with effect from 1 January 2019.
Voluntary PAYE
Voluntary PAYE systems of tax have been implemented by several courier firms to assist couriers in ensuring that they are tax compliant. Revenue has no issue with these arrangements continuing, however Revenue has reiterated that income tax, USC & PRSI should be applied on gross income.
Van Owner-Driver Couriers
Similar to motor cycle and bicycle couriers, Revenue are of the view that van owner-driver couriers are engaged under a contract for service and thus they are self-employed individuals.
Pay and File System for Income Tax Self-Assessment
Under self-assessment there is a common date for the payment of tax and filing of tax returns. You must file your tax return on or before 31 October in the year after the year to which the return relates.
This system, which is known as Pay and File, requires you to:
- file your return for the previous year
- make a self-assessment for that year
- pay the balance of tax for that year
- pay preliminary tax for the current year.
For example, by 31 October 2019 you must:
- pay your preliminary tax for 2019
- file your 2018 self-assessment tax return
- pay any Income Tax (IT) balance for 2018.
When you pay and file through the Revenue Online Service (ROS), the 31 October deadline is extended to mid-November.
For more information on the taxation of couriers, please contact us.
