24 Jun 2024

Your Inland Revenue woes: Have you had an unexpected tax bill?

11:05 am on 24 June 2024
Income tax section on IRD (Inland Revenue) website.

Photo: RNZ

Many people are being stung with surprise tax bills of thousands of dollars - with employees on parental leave among the hardest hit.

Since 2019, Inland Revenue has sent out automated income tax assessments to New Zealanders on a wage or salary.

Generally, the calculations are accurate. However, if someone's circumstances change during a financial year, there might be a refund or an amount owing.

The rising cost of living means many Kiwis are doing it tough, and many are stressed about tax bills.

We want to hear from RNZ readers who have been stung with a surprise tax bill this year.

Perhaps you're having to make cuts in other areas to accommodate the bill you weren't expecting.

You might be a teacher, a nurse, or a mum on maternity leave who has found out you suddenly have a large amount owing due to a change in circumstances or backpay. Perhaps you have a cautionary tale to share with others?

To share your story, email iwitness@rnz.co.nz While you'll need to be able to verify your identity with us, we may consider granting anonymity.