There is a lot going on with the world’s situation that individuals just sometimes want to take a break for a while. A moment to forget about certain problems is what most of the population want. However, there is something that shall not be forgotten — paying the property taxes. There may be a time where a question pops up. “How to pay taxes in the middle of a pandemic?” Learn more about paying real property taxes below.
How to pay property taxes
In the Philippines, there are two ways on how to pay real property taxes. Paying taxes on site is the prevailing method of paying real property taxes even before the pandemic came. Provided for the following sentences is the process of updating the real property taxes.
- Before visiting the established property’s City Hall, keep in mind to bring the following requirements to maintain the steady flow of the transaction.
- A valid and unexpired government-issued Identification Card (ID)
- The established property’s tax declaration number or;
- The official receipt (OR) of the previous tax payment for the issuance of the Order of Payment
- Visit the Land Tax Division of the Treasurer’s Office of the Local Government Unit where the property established is located.
- Request for Order of Payment to be signed by an authorized official
- Pay the property tax due. Annual payment terms may be done quarterly or in a lump sum. Some LGU’s are providing discounts when paying the real property taxes in full. It is also allowed to advance payments as long as the taxes currently due are paid in full. This option will be great for those property owners who are planning on saving more in the future.
- Upon payment of the tax due, an official receipt (OR) will be issued.
Take note of the quarterly payment deadline to avoid penalties that may occur due to delay. First-quarter shall be paid on or before January 31 of the current year. For annual lump sum payors, that is the only chance to pay the tax due in full, otherwise, quarterly payment shall be followed for the rest of the year. Second quarter payments shall be done on or before March 31. Third-quarter tax dues shall be paid on or before September 30. Lastly, final quarter tax dues shall be paid on or before December 31.
Paying taxes onsite vs. Paying taxes online
While paying onsite gives a person a sense of security in paying its real property tax due as it is provided with an official receipt (OR) coming from the office itself. Its disadvantages are the very time-consuming wait in line, especially for the people who pay quarterly, as they will be returning to the City Hall more frequently than those annual one-time payors. Other disadvantages included are the costs from traveling and the costs incurred while waiting in lines such as food and beverages. Considering the current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, paying onsite and the prolonged stay in there increases the risk of receiving the virus where in this particular case, some groups are amending the extension of the deadline of payment of real property tax. In case that there is a need to update the real property tax due, individuals must always follow the COVID-19 safety protocols and guidelines to minimize the risk of getting affected. It would be preferable to opt to go way too early to avoid the long lines.
Other municipalities are adhering to the optimization of technology, especially around Metro Manila. Some Local Government Units (LGUs) provide an online option as a better way to update homeowner’s tax due just by using electronic devices. The convenience is way better than the onsite payment as all it needs is an internet-ready device and an internet connection. Also, it is much safer from getting exposed to the virus as it is doable while not going outside. The only possible downside for this will be coming from non-techy persons from the people of older age. Some may need guidance from others to finish the payment online as not everyone is used to this new method. Paying online typically requires more carefulness as it is more systematized. A simple error in typing the details may void the transaction, or worse, the payment may be sent to someone’s property. Though paying real property taxes online might seem a bit intimidating, its pros outweigh the cons as long as keeping all the details correct and double-checked. In the next few years, other municipalities may be also adhering to this kind of proposition until it becomes a national option. Adding this kind of option in the future will bring a lot of efficiency between the government offices and the Filipino citizens, therefore, adding significant economic growth to the country.
An individual may have read articles about a lot for sale or a condo for sale in the Philippines and now, they have a property tax to pay. As responsible citizens of the Philippines, Filipinos must pay taxes to the government. Paying tax is not only a contribution to the country’s economic growth or responsibility that only needs to be fulfilled. It is also a way to improve the individual’s life for a better and brighter future.
Paying the right amount of money on time or ahead will benefit the individual. Some municipalities like San Pedro, Laguna have had few adjustments for individuals who will not be able to pay on time but paying early would be a smarter move. No one wants to lose what they own. All the hardships for acquiring a property shall not be put to waste. In cases that an individual would not be able to pay the property tax, their property would be a house and lot for sale. Protect your properties. Pay your taxes.
Related Blog: How to Pay Your Property Taxes in the Philippines
