Learn how the Year of Assessment (YA) works in Singapore’s personal income tax system, the key dates, and what taxpayers in Singapore should do to stay compliant and save on taxes.
📌 What is the Year of Assessment (YA)?
In Singapore, the Year of Assessment refers to the year in which your income earned in the previous calendar year is assessed for tax purposes. For example:
- Income earned from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024 is taxed in YA 2025.
- The income year is also called the “basis period” for that YA.
The YA is important because it determines the filing deadlines, applicable tax rates, and eligibility for reliefs or rebates.
📅 Key Dates for YA 2025
- Filing Opens: 1 March 2025
- Paper Filing Deadline: 15 April 2025
- e-Filing Deadline: 18 April 2025
- Final Payment Due: Within 1 month from your Notice of Assessment
These dates apply to most personal income tax filings in Singapore. Self-employed taxpayers should prepare earlier due to additional reporting requirements.
🏷️ How the YA Works for Different Types of Income
The YA applies to all taxable income earned during the previous calendar year, including:
- Employment income: Salaries, bonuses, allowances, benefits-in-kind.
- Self-employment income: Profits from business, trade, or profession.
- Rental income: From properties located in Singapore.
- Investment income: Certain taxable interest, royalties, and gains (capital gains are generally exempt).
Tax residents are taxed on a progressive scale (0% to 24% in YA 2025), while non-residents are generally taxed at a flat 24%.
🛡️ Why the YA Matters for Tax Planning
Understanding your YA allows you to:
- Time your income and deductible expenses effectively.
- Maximise CPF top-up relief and Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS) contributions before 31 December.
- Ensure donations to approved charities qualify for the 250% deduction.
- Plan property rental periods and renovations to maximise deductions.
Planning ahead can reduce your taxable income for the upcoming YA.
💡 YA for New Residents & Foreigners
If you are a foreigner who becomes a tax resident, your first YA will include income earned from the date you start working in Singapore up to 31 December of that year.
Example:
- You start work on 1 July 2024 → Income from 1 July 2024 to 31 Dec 2024 will be taxed in YA 2025.
✅ Steps to Prepare for Filing in YA 2025
- Gather income documents: IR8A forms, business statements, rental agreements.
- Check pre-filled details in myTax Portal.
- Claim eligible reliefs and deductions.
- Ensure all taxable income is declared.
- Submit before the deadline to avoid penalties.
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📢 Final Thoughts
The Year of Assessment is the backbone of Singapore’s tax system, and understanding it can help you file correctly and optimise your tax position. Knowing which income year applies, when to file, and how to claim deductions will keep you compliant and potentially lower your tax bill.
If you have complex situations—like dual income sources, business earnings, or cross-border work—consider speaking to a Singapore tax advisor for personalised advice.
