The Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) has clarified that taxpayers will not face penalties if their tax assessments need adjustment due to inaccurate or incomplete income information submitted by intermediaries. This statement follows recent issues involving income data provided by platforms such as Grab.

As part of efforts to simplify tax compliance for platform workers amid the evolving gig economy, IRAS introduced a pre-filling initiative. Under this scheme, participating intermediaries submit income details directly to IRAS, which are then automatically included in the taxpayers’ returns. However, the responsibility for ensuring the accuracy of this information rests with the intermediaries.

In the case involving Grab, the company identified and submitted corrected income records to IRAS, prompting the tax authority to revise assessments for the affected private-hire car drivers. Revised tax bills will be issued accordingly, and drivers are not required to take any immediate action until they receive these updated notices.

For taxpayers paying taxes via GIRO, instalment plans will be adjusted automatically in line with the revised assessments. Those not enrolled in GIRO must settle any revised payments by the due dates specified in the new tax bills.

IRAS acknowledged the increasing complexity of platform work and affirmed its commitment to collaborating with intermediaries and sector associations. The aim is to continuously improve processes and provide support for platform workers to meet their tax obligations with greater ease and accuracy.