skattyfirvöld

Skattyfirvöld is an Icelandic term that refers to the government authorities responsible for tax administration. In Iceland, the principal body performing this function is Skatturinn (the Tax Administration), which operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs and is headed by the Ríkisskattstjóri (Chief Tax Administrator).

Functions: Skattyfirvöld determine tax liability, collect taxes, issue tax assessments, and process tax returns for individuals and businesses. They administer value-added tax (VAT) and other levies, conduct audits to ensure compliance, impose penalties when appropriate, and oversee refunds, exemptions, and credits. They also provide guidance and information to taxpayers and maintain official records.

Organization and services: The agency maintains taxpayer records, offers online filing and other digital services, and handles inquiries and appeals through formal channels. Privacy and data protection are governed by national legislation and applicable EU/EEA standards.

Legal framework and international cooperation: Its activities are grounded in national tax laws and related regulation, including data protection rules. Skattyfirvöld cooperates with foreign tax authorities for information exchange in accordance with international agreements and standards (such as automatic information exchange and tax treaties).

History and modernization: Over recent decades, the tax administration in Iceland has modernized through digitization, online filing, and automated processes to improve efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.

Usage note: The term skattyfirvöld is typically used in formal or legal contexts. In everyday language, Skatturinn or more specific designations for the agency are common.