Missed the deadline for tax return - What now?

Due to the Corona crisis, the deadline for applying for an extension for tax declarations in the canton of Zurich was extended from March 31, 2020, to May 31, 2020. Those who applied for the extension on time have until September 30, 2020, to submit their tax declaration. But what should be done if tax deadlines are missed? – Find out in the article.

Tax authorities show no mercy for missed deadlines. Anyone who does not submit their tax declaration in time, who does not apply for an extension on time, or misses the objection deadline, faces severe fines or high losses due to incorrect assessment. What can one do if a deadline is missed?

Tax declaration not submitted

If the deadline to submit the tax declaration is missed, it is recommended to submit it immediately. Generally, tax authorities will issue a reminder before sending a fine. Therefore, if one submits their tax declaration immediately after the deadline, they might avoid a penalty with some luck. Prompt submission of the tax declaration is doubly worthwhile. For those who fail to do so, tax authorities will assess at their discretion. Such discretionary assessments are often higher than the actual tax liability, but are difficult to contest. Only if the discretionary assessment is obviously incorrect will a reduction be made later. Otherwise, if one has not submitted their tax declaration, they are simply out of luck.

Extension not applied for

"Ask and you shall receive" - this is somewhat mentioned in the Bible. If the extension deadline is missed, a retrospective extension is generally not possible. Nonetheless, it is worth contacting the tax office of the place of residence and explaining the reasons for missing the deadline. There is a chance that tax authorities might show leniency if there are factual reasons for the delay and grant an extraordinary extension. Especially in the special times of Corona, it might be worthwhile to inquire since understanding may be greater than usual.

Objection deadline missed

In principle, deadlines in tax law, such as the objection deadline for incorrect assessments, can be restored. However, this is a difficult task. Only those who can provide valid reasons and are not at fault themselves will receive a restoration. For instance, recognized reasons include a death or serious illness. The restoration of the deadline must be requested within 30 days after the reason for hindrance has ceased. The procedure is free of charge.

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