Tax and Accounting Requirements in Colombia: When a company considers expanding into a new market, one crucial aspect to factor into the decision-making process is Colombia’s tax and accounting framework. Considerations such as corporate tax rates, value-added tax (VAT) rates, and double taxation relief need to be thoroughly assessed. Moreover, it is essential to understand Colombia’s financial reporting standards, specifically whether local accounting standards or International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), known as Normas Internacionales de Información Financiera (NIFF) in Spanish, are applicable.
This article provides an overview of the taxation and accounting regulations in Colombia. The type of company created in Colombia may give rise to different tax treatments, the frequency of tax declarations, pension and health contributions required.
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Corporate Tax and Accounting Requirements in Colombia:
For most individuals, the mention of accountants immediately brings to mind taxes. Whether you are an individual residing in Colombia or a corporate executive overseeing a multinational operation, understanding Colombian tax laws is crucial to safeguard your interests.
Accounting Standards – NIFF/IFRS in Colombia:
All companies operating in Colombia must adhere to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), also referred to as Normas Internacionales de Información Financiera (NIFF) in Spanish. When engaging an accountant in Colombia, ensure they are certified in this process. Compliance is of utmost importance, as fines can reach a minimum of $200 USD, which is roughly equivalent to a minimum monthly salary of $220 USD. This can amount to up to $45,000 USD in maximum fines, considering the high value of the US dollar.
Doing Business in Colombia – Double Taxation:
Double taxation is not permitted under Colombian law. Colombian tax deductions and calculations differ significantly from those in other countries. The interpretation of allowing US deductions for income earned in the USA varies among Colombian accounting and legal firms. Each individual and company has a unique set of circumstances that should be evaluated by a professional before drawing any conclusions. In some cases, the difference in tax percentages not paid in one country may need to be paid in another.
Reporting Requirements in Colombia:
Corporations in Colombia are required to submit monthly tax reports starting from the creation of their first invoice. These reports encompass cash flow statements, as well as monthly, quarterly, and annual reports, ensuring compliance. Payroll (Nominal) mandates monthly reports for employees receiving benefits to maintain compliance. Inactive companies or startups have a minimum filing requirement of quarterly reports, and failing to file results in significant fines imposed by the DIAN (Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales).
In Colombia, it is essential to provide employees with benefits. This applies whether you hire domestic staff or individuals referred to you by acquaintances, working on an hourly basis. Colombian workers expect you to provide their severance pay upon terminating the employment relationship.
Reporting Requirements in Colombia:
Various Colombian government agencies, including the Superintendency of Corporations, the Superintendency of Securities, the Superintendency of Banks, the Tax and Customs Administration, issue regulations and statements on accounting principles. Colombian generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) are stipulated in decrees. GAAP compliance is mandatory when producing financial statements for any entity involved in income-generating activities in Colombia. These financial statements must provide an accurate depiction of the entity’s financial status, irrespective of tax obligations.
Furthermore, standardized formats must be adhered to when recording any transaction, following the Unique Plan of Accounts (Plan Unico de Cuentas).
Under Colombian corporate laws, accounting records must be maintained in Colombian pesos and in the Spanish language. Non-monetary assets, non-monetary liabilities, and net worth must also be adjusted for inflation and devaluation, using the applicable percentage of adjustment for the fiscal year.
Joint-stock corporations listing their shares on the stock exchange or issuing liabilities, as well as all financial sector entities, must publish their annual financial statements in a local newspaper.
Accounting Principles and Standards in Colombia:
Separate financial statements are not required for corporate income tax purposes in Colombia. Colombian subsidiaries and branches often prepare two sets of financial statements: one for Colombian shareholders and local legal purposes, adhering to Colombian GAAP, and another following the accounting principles generally accepted in the headquarters’ country.
Separate financial statements are not mandated for corporate income tax purposes. Adjustments used to determine taxable profit are detailed in a tax computation schedule. Companies must prepare financial statements annually for tax purposes, with the calendar year as the standard reporting period. However, certain entities like banks must submit monthly financial statements to the Superintendency of Banks.
Accounting Practices:
Basic financial information includes the balance sheet, income statement, statement of retained earnings, statement of changes in shareholder equity, statement of changes in financial position, and statement of cash flows. Notes explaining accounting policies and additional information are integral to the basic financial information.
Capitalization of Interests:
Asset costs must include all expenses incurred before the asset’s actual use date. Interest incurred on debts directly related to the asset before its use date should be capitalized. Once the asset is ready for use, interest capitalization ceases.
Lessee Accounting:
Lease classification depends on the transaction circumstances, with capital leases as the standard classification. In some cases, leases can be classified as operating leases after meeting specific legal requirements.
Merger Accounting:
Assets and liabilities of merged companies are recorded at book value.
Inventory Valuation:
Common inventory valuation methods include First-in, first-out (FIFO), last in, first out (LIFO), and weighted-average methods. The methods used for determining ending inventory and the cost of sales include the perpetual inventory system, periodic inventory system, and retail system methods. The standard cost method is acceptable for financial reporting but not for tax law purposes.
Company Dividends:
Dividends are registered as a company liability when declared based on previously approved financial statements at the general shareholders’ assembly. Accounting for declared dividends decreases retained earnings and includes dividends in current liabilities.
Consolidated Financial Statements in Colombia:
The parent or holding company is required to prepare and disclose consolidated financial statements that present the financial position, operational results, changes in net worth, and cash flows of the parent or holding company and its subsidiaries. Investments in non-consolidated subsidiary companies must also be recorded in the parent or holding company’s books using the equity method.
Unusual Items:
Unusual items must be disclosed separately in the statement of income. Significant gains or losses resulting from transactions outside the normal course of business are included in this category.
Understanding Colombian Accounting:
While fundamental accounting principles are consistent worldwide, Colombian accounting reports and tax laws exhibit notable distinctions. Beyond translating report titles and keywords, experienced Colombian accountants are essential to provide essential information adhering to high standards.
For instance, monthly corporate tax filings are mandatory in Colombia, with personal income taxes due in August and September. Filing deadlines are determined by the last two digits of the corporate ID and the last two digits of the Colombian ID card for personal income tax filings, and these dates can frequently change. To navigate Colombia’s taxation system smoothly, enlisting the assistance of qualified Colombian accountants is crucial.
Common Questions when understanding accounting and taxation in Colombia
Based on our extensive experience these are the common questions and doubts from our clients when looking to understand accounting and taxation in Colombia
The Corporate Tax rate in Colombia is 35%
Companies in Colombia are taxed on income.
The IRS in Colombia is called the DIAN. National Directorate of Taxes and Customs.
Colombian accounting standards include IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standard), known as NIFF (Normas Internacionales de Información Financiera) in Spanish, the National Tax Statute, and Decree 2649 of 1993, which mandates generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as accounting standards. Financial statements must be prepared in Spanish, and bookkeeping must also be in Spanish.
The equivalent of the CPA in Colombia is the Junta Central de Contadores.
Yes, Colombia reports in IFRS.
From our Accounting team – What should I do next?
If you do not have all the documentation and know exactly how to fill in corporate tax reports you don’t really need an accountant. Yet the Colombian taxation system can have its complications and can end up being a great source of stress and time loss. Completing the return outside of the established dates can lead to large penalties. If you have any questions or need help completing your Fiscal Auditing, Internal Audit or you need advice in analyzing budgets and forecasts before starting up in Colombia, contact Biz Latin Hub. Our team of accountants in Colombia can help you with your tax reporting through the provision of tailored and affordable accounting services. Contact us now for more information.
If you want to learn about the opportunities of doing business in Colombia, check out this video:
The information provided here within should not be construed as formal guidance or advice. Please consult a professional for your specific situation. Information provided is for informative purposes only and may not capture all pertinent laws, standards, and best practices. The regulatory landscape is continually evolving; information mentioned may be outdated and/or could undergo changes. The interpretations presented are not official. Some sections are based on the interpretations or views of relevant authorities, but we cannot ensure that these perspectives will be supported in all professional settings.
