BIR: Religious groups’ tax exemption needs review every 3 years

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is standing pat on its ruling on the grant of tax exemptions to qualified non-stock and non-profit corporations, saying religious organizations should lead by example and comply with the law.

Under Revenue Memorandum 28-2013, non-stock and non-profit associations such as schools, religious organizations and charitable institutions have to renew their income tax exemption status every three years, submit required documents, and pass the evaluation to be conducted by tax authorities.

These entities were previously not required to apply for renewal as the tax exemption was considered lifetime unless cancelled or revoked.

Tax exemption certificates issued to these groups after June 2012 would be effective for only three years from the date of issuance, while those issued prior to that shall expire by end-December this year.