Deadline Reminder: get your PESEL number early for tax-filing season

How do I get a PESEL number?

In January 2018, the process of obtaining a national identification number in Poland became much easier – every foreigner registering their residence address (both temporary and permanent) is now automatically granted a PESEL number. All companies that employ foreigners are advised to make sure that their workers possess a PESEL number - it is required when filling in the PIT-11 form and therefore necessary to meet the tax obligations.

What is the deadline?

The PIT-11 tax form is prepared by the employer and contains all information regarding their employee’s income and advance tax payments. Previously, the document had to be delivered by the employer both to the employee and the relevant tax office by the end of February. This year the deadline is shorter – note that the document has to be submitted (electronically) to the relevant tax office by the end of January. The change results from a newly introduced service (e-PIT) which allows taxpayers to simply check and accept their tax return forms, already filled in by Krajowa Administracja Skarbowa (The National Revenue Administration). Although more convenient for the taxpayer, the new process requires more time to collect all the necessary employee data. The rest of the procedure remains the same as before: all employees should be provided with their tax return forms by the end of February.

What if I don't have it?

Foreigners who do not have a PESEL number and would like to obtain it, can do so by filling in an application form at the relevant gmina office, free of charge. In such a case, the applicant should state a legal basis for obtaining a PESEL number (such as being a company board member and preparing financial statements for which a PESEL number is required).