TAX RELIEF ON SERVICE CHARGES

The number of claims for tax relief on service charges has risen dramatically since the beginning of the year, according to The Sunday Business Post.

The reliefs, which are due to disappear next year have become increasingly popular. Around 15,650 have been lodged with the Revenue this year so far – equating to 4,470 claims a month. This is more than double the 2010 figure.

Tax relief at the standard rate of 20% on charges up to €400 a year is allowed on a variety of local authority services including:

• Water
• Refuse
• Sewage

In Budget 2010, it was announced the reliefs would be abolished from January 1, 2012.