On August 28, 2024, Poland’s Ministry of Finance announced a set of new regulations and guidance aimed at the digitization of accounting documentation for Corporate Income Tax (CIT) taxpayers. These reforms predominantly target large enterprises and tax corporate groups, with the intention of simplifying tax procedures and enhancing transparency through the compulsory use of structured electronic formats for accounting records. Key Updates:
1. Introduction of JPK_KR_PD and JPK_ŚT_KR Structures: The Ministry has published informative brochures detailing the newly established JPK_KR_PD accounting book framework and the JPK_ŚT_KR structure designated for tangible asset recordings. These resources provide in-depth guidance for businesses on how to navigate and adhere to the requirements of these logical frameworks.
2. New Obligations for Large Entities and Tax Corporate Groups: Effective January 1, 2025, companies generating revenues exceeding EUR 50 million, along with corporate tax groups, will be mandated to maintain their accounting records using software that complies with the JPK_KR_PD structure. Subsequently, these records must be submitted electronically to the relevant tax authorities.
3. Gradual Implementation Timeline: The introduction of these requirements will be implemented progressively. The first submissions of digital accounting records aligned with the JPK_KR_PD structure are expected by March 2026, coinciding with the reporting deadline for the 2025 tax year.The Ministry has allocated the year 2025 for businesses to adjust their systems to meet the new standards. – For organizations with revenues exceeding EUR 50 million and tax corporate groups: Starting January 1, 2025, they must incorporate tags identifying accounts within their electronic records. By 2026, further details such as contractor identification numbers and invoice numbers from the National e-Invoicing System will also be necessary. – For additional CIT taxpayers: These stipulations will be phased in starting January 1, 2026, and January 1, 2027, based on their respective tax years and levels of revenue.
4. Simplified Reporting Obligations: In response to industry feedback, the Ministry has initiated steps to alleviate compliance burdens for specific sectors. Financial institutions, telecommunications firms, and other selected entities will not be required to supply taxpayer identification numbers (NIP) for certain core business activities. Furthermore, fixed or intangible assets recorded prior to January 1, 2025, will not necessitate updates to their information except for the indication of their deletion date.
5. Further Clarifications and Resources: To assist businesses in comprehending these new regulations, the Ministry has created brochures that outline the logical structures of the JPK_KR_PD accounting book and the recording of fixed assets. Additionally, a dedicated helpdesk (helpdesk@mf.gov.pl) and an FAQ section are available on the Ministry’s website to address public inquiries. The Ministry encourages businesses and taxpayers to utilize these resources and seek clarification on any uncertainties.
6. Industry Feedback Incorporated: The new regulations embody numerous suggestions from various sectors, primarily focused on easing compliance processes. Notably, the logical structure has been divided into two distinct parts—JPK_KR_PD for the accounting book and JPK_ŚT_KR for fixed assets—enhancing clarity and management efficiency. The structure also allows for periodic data generation (monthly, quarterly, etc.), which is particularly advantageous for businesses managing extensive records.
Looking Ahead: The push for digitization by the Ministry is part of a broader strategy to modernize Poland’s tax administration. This initiative indicates a significant shift towards the increased utilization of technology in tax reporting, aiming to foster greater efficiency for both businesses and tax authorities alike.
However, it will be essential for companies to ensure their accounting systems are capable of complying with the new requirements, especially as the implementation deadlines draw near.
