Why You Shouldn’t Ghost the Estate Tax Amnesty
By: Atty. Eugenio L. Riego II, LLB. MA, REB
Let’s face it — no one likes talking about death and taxes, but here we are. And just when you thought death was the end of all your earthly problems, the BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue) gently taps you on the shoulder (or your heirs’ shoulders) and says,
“Hello po. May utang pa kayo.”
Death is certain. Estate tax is even more certain.
If you’ve got properties, businesses, or even just a tiny slice of land somewhere out there — congratulations, you are now eligible to complicate your loved ones’ lives after you’re gone!
But here’s the good news (yes, there is good news): the Philippine government is offering an Estate Tax Amnesty until June 14, 2025. It’s like a once-in-a-lifetime SALE — only this time, the “item” is peace of mind for your grieving family.
Estate Tax Amnesty: The Highlights
- Who can apply?
Estates of people who died on or before May 31, 2022. - How much do you pay?
A deliciously simple 6% of the net estate value. That’s it! No late payment penalties, no crushing interest, no jail time.
(Side note: ₱5,000 minimum — because even heaven needs entrance fees.) - What happens if you don’t apply?
Well… your heirs will have property they can’t sell, transfer, mortgage, or even flex on Facebook Marketplace.
In short: a big, fat headache that lasts decades.
Common Mistakes That Will Haunt You (Literally)
- Thinking “Ay, minor property lang ‘yan!”
The BIR does not care if your property is only 20 square meters. If it has unpaid estate taxes, it’s locked like a Netflix parental control setting. - Waiting until the “last minute”
Procrastinators, beware: June 14, 2025 might feel like forever from now… until you blink and it’s already June 13. - Thinking “Family first, paperwork later.”
This leads to decades of family feuds, drama, and teleserye-level lawsuits.
Want your grandkids throwing punches over the family bahay kubo? No? Settle it now.
How to Successfully Haunt—er, Handle Your Estate Tax
Here’s your Battle Plan:
- Gather your paperwork
- Death Certificate
- List of assets
- Extrajudicial Settlement (or court order)
- TINs of heirs (No TIN? Go get one at BIR. It’s free — the stress is not.)
- Compute your estate
Take everything the deceased owned. Subtract debts. What’s left? Pay 6% of that. - File your Estate Tax Amnesty Return (ETAR)
Visit your RDO (Revenue District Office) or file electronically (because even ghosts have WiFi now). - Pay!
Either cash, check, blood, sweat, or tears. (Kidding! Cash or bank deposit will do.) - Get your eCAR (Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration)
It’s the official “All clear!” from BIR. No eCAR, no transfer of titles. No happy endings.
Pro-Tips From the Afterlife
- Estate Planning is sexy.
You know what’s hotter than abs? A family member who settles estate taxes early. Be that person. - Forgive and File.
Even if you hate your sibling, process the paperwork. It’s cheaper than a court battle. - Talk to the experts.
Hire a good accountant or lawyer. After all, you don’t fix your own car unless you want it to explode, right?
Final Thoughts: How to Win at Death
If you truly love your family, don’t leave them with legal messes, unpaid taxes, and property that feels more cursed than blessed.
This Estate Tax Amnesty is like the government saying:
“Okay na, kahit late kayo, basta bayad kayo.”
Read the latest blog – The Power of Personal Branding in the Real Estate Industry
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