Ultimate Guide to eTAX Hong Kong – File Taxes Online Easily

Still filing your taxes manually? You could be facing unnecessary errors, delays, or even penalties.

eTAX is Hong Kong’s secure online tax platform that makes filing, managing, and paying taxes a breeze. With eTAX, you can submit returns, calculate electronic tax bills, and make secure payments; all in one place.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about eTAX, from how it works to how you can register and start using it today. 

What is eTAX in Hong Kong? 

eTAX serves as the gateway to IRD’s electronic services. eTAX provides a seamless, secure, and eco-friendly solution to tax compliance. It offers comprehensive suite of e-services to all the eTAX account holders like: 

• Tax computation for salaries tax and personal assessments
• Property tax (both for solely owned and jointly owned properties)
• Payment of tax bills
• Paying business registration fee and stamp duty
• Purchasing tax reserve certificates
• Submitting Profit Tax Return (PTR)
• Conducting communication with Inland Revenue Department

You can access these services using your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), eTAX Password, or digital certificate. With just a single login to your eTAX Account, you can track your tax position, manage your tax affairs, and communicate with the Inland Revenue Department anytime and anywhere. 

3 benefits of an eTAX account

1. Simplified compliance: eTAX account holders will receive e-alert messages to remind them of all the upcoming deadlines for filing returns and making tax payments timely. 
2. Streamlined tax management: eTAX account allows taxpayers to handle tax compliance, manage records, fulfill tax obligations, and interact with the IRD in a fully digital environment. 
3. High security: eTAX operates on a highly secured platform and employs strict security standards and procedures to protect data privacy and prevent unauthorized access.

How to register and access your eTAX Account 

Step 1: Visit the eTAX website

Go to the eTAX Gov HK website and click “Login eTAX Now.”

Step 2: Gather login credentials

To access eTAX, you’ll need one of the following:

• Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) (found on your tax return or assigned by the IRD)
• An eTAX password (provided by mail for first-time users)
• Alternative login options:
  • Digital Certificate (e-cert) (can be used instead of a password)
  • iAM Smart app (Hong Kong’s digital identity platform)
    If you forgot your eTAX password, click “Forgot password” to reset it.

Where to find your TIN?

• Individuals: Your TIN is usually your HKID number. If you haven’t filed taxes before, you may need to apply for one.
• Businesses: The Business Registration Number (BRN) serves as the company’s TIN.

Step 3: Log in and accept terms

Enter your credentials and log in. You’ll be redirected to the Terms and Conditions page. Read and accept them to proceed.

Step 4: Create eTAX password

If you’re a first-time user, you’ll be prompted to create a new password. Choose an 8-16 character alphanumeric password or use the one assigned by IRD.

Step 5: Set up profile

Complete your account profile by entering:

• Password hints (for future recovery)
• Contact details
• Communication preferences

Step 6: Review and confirm

Carefully verify all the details you entered. If you need to make changes, click “Change” next to the relevant item. Once everything is correct, click “Confirm.”

Step 7: Save acknowledgment & access eTAX account

Download or save the acknowledgment page for future reference. Click “Continue” to officially access your eTAX account and start filing your tax returns.

What’s new? 2024 upgrades to eTAX portal

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) launched the enhanced eTAX portal in Hong Kong on August 14, 2024, designed to help users navigate their tax obligations more easily.

With an intuitive, mobile-responsive design, the upgraded portal enhances efficiency and user experience, whether you’re filing taxes from a desktop or mobile device.

The table below outlines the key features of the new applications:

Who needs to file a tax return in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong follows a territorial-based tax system, meaning you only pay tax on income earned within Hong Kong. The tax return you need to file depends on your income sources:

• Salaries Tax Return (BIR60) – For employees earning wages, bonuses, or other job-related income.
  👉 Learn more about Salaries Tax filing here
• Property Tax Return (BIR57) – For property owners earning rental income in Hong Kong.
• Profits Tax Return (BIR52/BIR54) – For businesses, including sole proprietors and partnerships.
• Other Tax Returns – Special forms like IRD61A (income from interest) and IRD61E (director’s fees) may apply to certain individuals.

📅 Tax returns are typically due in May each year, and you may need to provide supporting documents for deductions and income verification.

Who can use eTAX in Hong Kong?

eTAX is available to all taxpayers in Hong Kong, including individuals, businesses, and employers, to manage their tax obligations online. You can use eTAX if you fall into any of the following categories:

1. Individual taxpayers

• Employees earning income from salaries, wages, or bonuses
• Property owners receiving rental income
• Sole proprietors or freelancers with business income
• Directors receiving director’s fees

2. Businesses and employers

• Companies filing Profits Tax Returns (BIR51/BIR52/BIR54)
• Employers submitting Employer’s Return of Remuneration & Pensions (IR56B/F/G forms)
• Business owners applying for or renewing Business Registration (BR)

3. Other taxpayers

• Individuals or businesses submitting requests for tax assessment amendments
• Those applying for tax refunds or relief
• Taxpayers using eTAX for digital correspondence with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD)

How to file taxes online using eTAX in Hong Kong

Filing taxes in Hong Kong is now easier than ever with eTAX, the Inland Revenue Department’s (IRD) online tax platform. Whether you’re an individual, business owner, or property owner, you can submit your tax return electronically, avoiding paperwork and delays.

Step 1: Log in to eTAX

• Visit the eTAX website and enter your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and eTAX password.
• New user? Click “Apply for eTAX password” and follow the instructions. IRD will send an activation code within 2 working days.

Step 2: Select the Correct Tax Return Form

• Click “View Services” and choose the tax return form that applies to you (e.g., BIR60 for Salaries Tax, BIR57 for Property Tax).

Step 3: Complete the Tax Return Form

• Enter your income, deductions, and allowances carefully.
• Upload supporting documents such as financial statements or deduction forms.
• Review all details to ensure they align with IRD guidelines.

Step 4: Estimate Your Tax Before Submission (Optional)

• Click “Compute Estimated Tax Before Submission” to preview your tax liability.
• For a quick estimate, use Sleek’s tax calculator to calculate your expected tax before filing.

Step 5: Sign & Submit Your Tax Return

• Use your eTAX password, MyGovHK password, a digital certificate, or iAM Smart to sign and submit your return.

Step 6: Save Your Acknowledgment

• After submission, an acknowledgment page will appear.
• Your tax return will be stored in the Tax Position Section of your eTAX account for 3 years, allowing you to view, print, and save it anytime.

How Sleek can help

Navigating Hong Kong’s eTAX system can feel overwhelming, but Sleek’s local tax experts make it effortless. From registration to filing and managing your tax returns, we ensure timely submissions and full compliance with IRD regulations. Let us handle your eTAX requirements so you can focus on growing your business. Schedule a call now. 

5 common mistakes to avoid when using eTAX

1. Missing tax filing deadlines: 

The IRD usually sends out tax returns on the first business day of April, and they must be submitted within one month. Late submissions may result in penalties from the IRD. For instance, if your tax return is issued on April 1st, you need to submit it by May 1st to avoid any penalties.

2. Incorrect income reporting: 

All sources of income, including salaries, rental income, and business profits derived from Hong Kong, must be accurately reported through eTAX. Misreporting or omitting income can result in legal consequences. Always ensure to review all the entries before submission. 

3. Improper expense deductions: 

Claiming non-deductible expenses or failing to provide adequate documentation can lead to disallowed deductions. Familiarize yourself with the IRD’s guidelines on allowable deductions and maintain organized records of all supporting documents.

4. Overlooking business registration requirements: 

It is mandatory for businesses operating in Hong Kong to register with the Business Registration Office and pay the annual registration fee. Neglecting this obligation can result in fines. Ensure timely registration and renewal to remain compliant.

5. Neglecting to update personal or business details: 

Changes in personal information or business particulars should be promptly updated in the eTAX system to ensure accurate communication and record-keeping. This includes changes in address, contact information, or business nature.

Wrapping up eTAX

eTAX isn’t just a tax filing platform—it’s a game-changer for taxpayers in Hong Kong. By eliminating paperwork, streamlining submissions, and providing real-time access to tax records, eTAX empowers individuals and businesses to stay compliant effortlessly. Staying compliant not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also prevents you from unnecessary penalties. With secure digital filing, automated reminders, and seamless payment options, tax management is now even easier.