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Interim Tax in Korea: What Expats Need to Know

*Check-up of VAT Interim Payment Amount


In Korea, taxes are a key component of maintaining the government’s ability to fund infrastructure, social services, and other public goods. Among the various types of taxes, interim tax (also known as provisional or prepayment tax) is one that might catch expats by surprise if they are unfamiliar with the system. This article will explain what interim tax is, how it works, and what expats living in Korea need to be aware of to stay compliant with the tax regulations.


What Is Interim Tax(Corp. Income Tax, Individual Income Tax and VAT)?

The interim tax in Korea refers to a prepayment of income tax that is usually applied to self-employed individuals and business owners. It is essentially a tax advance, calculated based on half of the income tax paid in the previous year. The aim is to ensure that taxpayers don’t face a heavy tax burden all at once at the end of the year by spreading out the payments throughout the year.

If you are working as a freelancer, run your own business, or have non-salaried income, you may be required to pay this interim tax.

Key Features of Interim Tax:

  • Payment Timeline: Interim tax is typically due in August for Corp. Income Tax, Nov. for Individual Income Tax, and Apr. and Oct. for VAT each year.

  • Calculation: The tax amount is generally half of what you paid in taxes for the previous year for income taxes and previous quarters(2nd quarter and 4th quarter for VAT.

  • Settlement: After paying the interim tax, the actual tax liability will be settled when filing your year-end tax return. Any excess payment will be refunded, or if you underpaid, you will need to make up the difference.

  • Filing: You can file if you don't like the amount of interim tax bill.


Who Needs to Pay Interim Tax?

In Korea, most employees have their taxes automatically withheld by their employers and therefore do not need to worry about interim tax payments. However, expats in the following categories should be aware that they might need to pay interim tax:

  • Freelancers: If you are working on a contract basis without a regular employer withholding taxes for you, interim tax will likely apply.

  • Business Owners: Those running their own business in Korea, whether it’s a small local business or an online enterprise, are responsible for their own tax payments, including interim tax.

  • Self-employed Professionals: This includes lawyers, consultants, or any professionals working independently.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay Interim Tax?

Failing to pay interim tax on time can lead to penalties, including interest charges on the unpaid amount. It’s important to keep track of deadlines to avoid additional financial burdens.


How Is Interim Tax Calculated?

The amount of interim tax you are required to pay is typically calculated by the National Tax Service (NTS) based on your previous tax filing and payment. The basic formula is as follows:

  • Interim Tax = (Previous Year’s Income Tax) ÷ 2

For instance, if you paid ₩4,000,000 in taxes last year, your interim tax for the current year would be ₩2,000,000.

If you believe the amount calculated is inaccurate, for example, if your income has significantly decreased from the previous year, you can file an application to adjust the prepayment amount. This is a way to avoid overpayment when your income situation has changed dramatically.


How to Pay Interim Tax

Paying interim tax is straightforward, and there are multiple ways to make the payment:

  • Online: You can pay through the National Tax Service (NTS) website, using internet banking or by credit card.

  • Bank Visit: Payment can also be made at a local bank or post office in Korea.

  • Mobile App: The NTS also offers a mobile application called "손택스" (Hometax) which allows you to check your tax status and make payments conveniently.


What Should Expats Keep in Mind?

For expats, navigating the Korean tax system can be challenging, especially when dealing with unique tax requirements such as interim tax. Here are a few tips to help you stay on top of your tax obligations:

  1. Keep Track of Your Income: Whether you’re freelancing, consulting, or running a business, keeping detailed records of your income and expenses will help you when filing taxes and calculating interim tax.

  2. Use Hometax (손택스): This official tax portal, run by the National Tax Service, allows you to manage your taxes online. You can file returns, pay taxes, and even apply for tax adjustments.

  3. Consult a Tax Professional: If you’re unsure about how interim tax affects you or how to calculate it, it’s a good idea to consult Jz or a tax expert who specializes in Korean taxes for foreigners.

  4. Be Aware of Deadlines: Mark key dates on your calendar, especially the interim tax payment due date in August. Late payments result in fines and interest, so being punctual is crucial.


Conclusion

Interim tax can be a confusing part of the Korean tax system for expats, especially for those who are self-employed or own a business. However, understanding its purpose and how it works will help you avoid penalties and ensure that you stay compliant with local regulations. Make sure to stay informed, keep track of your finances, and consult a professional if needed to manage your taxes effectively while living in Korea.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What happens if I don’t pay my interim tax on time?

If you fail to pay your interim tax by the deadline, you will incur penalties, including interest on the unpaid amount. It’s important to pay on time to avoid additional costs.

2. Can I adjust my interim tax payment if my income has decreased?

Yes, if your income for the current year is significantly lower than the previous year, you can apply to adjust your interim tax payment by providing evidence of your reduced income.

3. Do salaried employees need to pay interim tax?

No, salaried employees usually do not need to pay interim tax since their taxes are withheld by their employers on a monthly basis.

4. How can I pay my interim tax?

You can pay your interim tax online via the National Tax Service website, through the Hometax mobile app, or by visiting a local bank or post office.

5. Is interim tax applicable to all expats in Korea?

No, interim tax generally applies to freelancers, business owners, and self-employed individuals. Salaried employees with taxes withheld from their paycheck are not subject to this tax.

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