Jersey Taxpayers Offered Options as £278m Historic Income Tax Bill Remains Unpaid

More than £278 million in unpaid income tax dating back to 2019 remains owed to the Jersey government, officials have confirmed.

The outstanding balance relates to a previous tax system in which residents paid based on their income from the year before. When the island moved to a new system in 2020, the collection of those earlier liabilities was frozen.

Under the current system, taxpayers now pay tax on income earned during the same year.

The government said that, as of mid-July, 23,697 taxpayers still had outstanding balances linked to the 2019 frozen tax liability.

Those affected have been given three ways to settle what they owe: paying the full amount immediately, spreading payments interest-free over a 17-year period, or delaying payment until they reach State pension age of 67.

Taxpayers have until 30 September to select their preferred repayment option. Anyone who does not make a choice will automatically be placed on the 17-year repayment plan.

A dedicated support team has been established by the government to help residents with queries about their outstanding balances. Islanders seeking advice can contact the team on 440300 or visit the tax office on Union Street in St Helier.