restskatter

Restskatt is the portion of a taxpayer’s tax liability that remains unpaid after the tax authority has issued its final assessment for a given year. The term is used in several Nordic tax systems to describe the balance due once prepayments, withholdings, and deductions are reconciled with the actual income and circumstances reported.

Restskatt arises when provisional payments or withholdings were too low relative to the final liability, or when new information, such as additional income, benefits, or adjustments to deductions, is discovered after filing. It can also result from corrections to reported figures or changes in tax rules that increase the amount owed.

The amount of restskatt is typically calculated as the final tax due minus the taxes already paid or withheld. The tax authority usually sends a bill or payment notice for the restskatt, with a specified due date. In many systems, interest accrues on the unpaid amount, and penalties may apply if payment is late or withholding remains insufficient.

Taxpayers may be able to pay restskatt in a single lump sum or arrange installments according to the authority’s rules. Unpaid restskatt can affect future tax payments, for example through adjustments to withholding for the following year. Failure to pay can lead to collection actions in some jurisdictions.

If a taxpayer believes the assessment is incorrect, there are typically procedures to appeal or amend the return. To reduce the likelihood of restskatt in the future, individuals can ensure complete and accurate reporting, adjust withholding or estimated payments, and review deductions and benefits with the tax authority.