Once a year every OSVČ in the Czech Republic closes the year: files a tax return and reports to the social security administration (ČSSZ) and a health insurer. Here are the deadlines and the process.
Deadlines
- 1 April — paper return;
- 1 May — if the return is filed electronically;
- 1 July — if you are represented by a tax adviser and the power of attorney was filed by 1 April.
Reports to ČSSZ and the insurer are due within a month after the return is filed. If a deadline falls on a weekend it moves to the next working day. We confirm the exact dates for the current year before the season and add them to the client’s calendar.
What you need
- a summary of the year’s income (invoices, bank statements);
- documented expenses or a decision to use flat-rate expenses;
- documents for deductions: mortgage, pension and life insurance, children, donations, etc.;
- data on advance payments of tax and contributions;
- confirmations of foreign income, if any.
How to file
The return can be filed through the tax office’s electronic portal, your data box (datová schránka) or on paper. Electronic filing is more convenient and gives an extra month. If you are unsure about the calculations, it is better to let an adviser file for you.
Do you have to file if you had no income
In most cases an OSVČ files a return even with zero or negative results, and also files the reports to the insurers. Exceptions exist but must be checked against your situation.
What happens if you are late
The tax office charges a late-filing penalty — a percentage of the tax for each day, with a minimum amount. Interest on unpaid tax and an audit are also possible. If you have already missed the deadline, file as soon as possible: the penalty grows over time.
How to save tax legally
- choose between actual and flat-rate expenses;
- apply tax deductions and allowances;
- account for equipment and business costs in time;
- consider the flat-rate regime if your income is below the limit.
We prepare and file OSVČ returns and reconstruct books for past years. More on the annual tax returns page.
