Jersey's government has started recouping more than £278 million in outstanding tax from nearly 24,000 islanders.
The tax collection system changed in 2020.
Some people who used to pay based on the previous year’s income still have an outstanding liability for 2019, which dates back to the transition.
The total amount to be collected is £278,050,713 from 23,697 taxpayers.
During the COVID pandemic, the States Assembly agreed to pause the collection of 2019 tax bills and take on the debt temporarily to avoid hardship.
Affected islanders have been written to this week, telling them they now have three options to pay these outstanding bills:
- Pay the amount through an interest-free payment plan of instalments over a maximum of 17 years. (In a 17-year plan, the final payment would be due on 31 December 2043)
- Wait and pay the full amount on reaching States Pension age
- Pay in full now
Those who do not make a choice by 30 September will automatically be put on a 17-year payment plan. Those who wish to take this option do not need to take any action.
A dedicated helpline has been set up for those with questions or concerns. They should call 440 300 and select option 2 for Personal Tax, then option 4 for the Prior Year Basis team.
The government says this can include asking to see your 2019 tax assessment from the time, or querying the amount you have been billed.
If you believe there is an error, the government says this may be due to an error made when you filed your tax return in 2019, and to call the team.
Alternatively, people can call in at the Government of Jersey offices on Union Street and ask to see a member of the team, or fill in our online query form here.
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