Filing your business income tax return

Types of income tax returns

If you're in business, you'll need to complete and send  Inland Revenue an income tax return, and attach either:

• a copy of your financial records, or
• a form that summarises your income and expenses.

The following summary forms may be used:

IR3B - Sole traders and partnerships can use this form to show business income.
IR3F - This form is especially for farming income and expenses.
IR3R - You can use this form to show any rental income you received.
IR10 - This form summarises selected account information from your financial records.

What return to use for income tax

Due dates for income tax returns

The due date of filing for an income tax return depends on the balance date of your business.

Balance date

The balance date is the end of the accounting year. When you apply for an  IRD number, your balance date is 31 March. If you want a different balance date, you need to apply to Inland Revenue in writing, stating the reason for the change.

You cannot use a different balance date until you have received written approval from Inland Revenue.

Due dates for tax returns

• For a balance date between 1 October and 31 March (inclusive), the due date of filing your income tax return is 7 July. This is the due date for most businesses.
• For a balance date between 1 April and 30 September (inclusive), the due date of filing your income tax return is the 7th day of the fourth month after your balance date.
• If a tax agent completes your return, there may be an extension of time for filing it - your agent will be able to confirm this for you.

You can generate a list of all the due dates that apply to you with the Tax Due Date Calculator from Inland Revenue.