Each year, hundreds of tax deductions and credits may go unclaimed due to the lack of taxing knowledge. To prevent that, here are 5 Tax Deductibles You Need To Know based on the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore.
FOR THE EMPLOYEE
1. EMPLOYMENT EXPENSES
A good news for all employees—employment expenses can be claimed as long as they satisfy these three conditions:
a. Expenses are sustained when carrying out official duties.
b. Expenses are not reimbursed by the employer.
c. Expenses are not private in nature.
For instance, traveling expenses on public transportation that are not reimbursed by the company may be deducted from the tax. Also, entertainment expenses that occurred while pleasing the clients may be deducted from the tax.
FOR THE EMPLOYER
2. STARTUP TAX EXEMPTION (SUTE)
A start-up company, have enough financial worries in your plate. What should you do then?
Take on the SUTE. Suited by SUTE, a start-up company that meets the required conditions can claim for full tax exemption on the first S$100, 000 of normal chargeable income for each of its first three consecutive years.
3. CORPORATE TAX INCOME REBATE (CTIR)
Since 2013, all Singapore companies are eligible to take on the CTIR. No! There is no catch. This scheme aims to help companies to cope with the rising costs in businesses. Suited by CTIR, companies will receive 30% rebate or up to S$30, 000 off the tax bill from 2013-2015.
OTHERS
4. ANGEL INVESTORS TAX DEDUCTION SCHEME
Be an angel, invest in start-up companies in Singapore to receive a huge tax benefit from the Angel Investors Tax Deduction Scheme.
Enjoy 50% tax deduction on the investment costs at the end of a two-year holding period. This is up to S$500, 000 of investments in each Year of Assessment. Investments made from March 1, 2010 until March 31, 2015 are eligible for this scheme.
5. DONATIONS
Want to double your tax deduction? Be generous and donate in all forms. The following types of donations will qualify you for a double tax deduction (twice the amount of the donation):
a. Cash Donations
b. Shares Donations
c. Computer Donations
d. Artefact Donations
e. Public Art Tax Incentive Scheme
f. Land and Building Donations
For instance, a donation to the Singapore museums that have obtained the Approved Museum Status with the National Heritage Board is tax deductible.
Equipped with these tax deduction knowledge, prepare to be impressed with your managed taxes now!