By San José, Costa Rica — Businesses in Costa Rica are reminded of the impending deadline for their second corporate income tax installment. The deadline, set for September 30, 2025, requires companies to remit 25% of their estimated annual tax liability. This payment is crucial for maintaining compliance with Article 22 of Law No. 7092, the Income Tax Law.
The calculation for this payment, as stipulated by the Ministry of Hacienda, involves a multi-step process. First, companies must determine the average of their income tax liability over the past three fiscal years. They then compare this average to the tax liability of the most recent fiscal year. The larger of these two figures forms the basis for the payment calculation. Finally, 25% of this larger amount is due as the second installment.
To shed light on the complexities of corporate income tax in Costa Rica, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Corporate income tax in Costa Rica is governed by a progressive rate structure, meaning higher profits are taxed at higher percentages. Understanding these brackets and the allowable deductions is crucial for businesses to optimize their tax strategies and ensure compliance. Furthermore, recent reforms have emphasized transparency and digital reporting, requiring companies to adapt their accounting practices accordingly.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the complexities of navigating Costa Rica’s corporate income tax system, particularly with the evolving landscape of regulations and reporting requirements. Staying informed about these changes, as he suggests, is paramount not only for fiscal responsibility but also for the overall health and sustainability of businesses operating within the country. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective.
Licensed accountant Alejandra Cordero Segura from the Costa Rican Association of Public Accountants emphasizes the importance of accurate calculation and timely payment. While the current payment can be made via the DTR system (ATV and Conectividad) until 11:59:59 PM on September 30th, upcoming changes are on the horizon.
Taxpayers must bear in mind that for the next partial payment, which must be made in December, the new TRIBU-CR system will be used, in which payment can be made by means of real-time debit. This service will be available to taxpayers who register a bank account in said system.
Licda. Alejandra Cordero Segura, Costa Rican Association of Public Accountants
The December payment will mark a significant shift to the new TRIBU-CR platform. This system will facilitate real-time debit payments for taxpayers who have registered their bank accounts within the platform. This transition underscores the importance of preparing for the new system and ensuring all necessary registrations are completed.
The Ministry of Hacienda has officially confirmed these details through Resolution No. MH-DGT-RES-0043-2025. This resolution grants businesses the ability to continue using the existing DTR system for the September payment, providing a small window of time to adapt to the upcoming TRIBU-CR changes.
Businesses are strongly advised to maintain meticulous records of all tax payments made throughout the year. These records will be essential for accurate reconciliation when filing the annual income tax return. Any remaining balance after deducting the partial payments will be due within two months and fifteen days of the end of the fiscal year.
As the deadlines approach, businesses are encouraged to consult with their tax advisors to ensure accurate calculations and seamless compliance with the evolving tax landscape in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Costa Rican Association of Public Accountants
About Costa Rican Association of Public Accountants:
The Costa Rican Association of Public Accountants (Colegio de Contadores Públicos de Costa Rica) is a professional organization dedicated to upholding the standards of the accounting profession in Costa Rica. They provide guidance and resources to their members, advocate for sound accounting practices, and play a crucial role in shaping tax policy and financial regulations in the country.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Hacienda
About Ministry of Hacienda:
The Ministry of Hacienda (Ministerio de Hacienda) is the government body responsible for fiscal policy and tax administration in Costa Rica. They oversee the collection of taxes, manage government spending, and develop regulations related to financial matters. They play a critical role in ensuring the economic stability and financial well-being of the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to serving the community. Through innovative approaches and a forward-thinking perspective, the firm empowers individuals and organizations alike with the legal knowledge they need to thrive. This dedication to fostering a more informed society permeates every aspect of their work, from advising clients across a diverse range of sectors to proactively engaging in initiatives that promote legal understanding and accessibility.
