Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
Re: Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
Benjamin Hart is losing it.
In the past his videos were presented in a calm and concise manner...usually answering questions that people had about the legal topic being discussed.
These last two videos made me feel like I was sitting in a bar next to a loud-mouthed drunk that was on the verge of having an emotional breakdown.
Thanks for posting Undaunted - but this guy needs to get laid.
In the past his videos were presented in a calm and concise manner...usually answering questions that people had about the legal topic being discussed.
These last two videos made me feel like I was sitting in a bar next to a loud-mouthed drunk that was on the verge of having an emotional breakdown.
Thanks for posting Undaunted - but this guy needs to get laid.
- Gaybutton
- Posts: 23442
- Joined: Sat Jul 31, 2010 11:21 am
- Location: Thailand
- Has thanked: 3 times
- Been thanked: 1550 times
Re: Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
I entirely agree with the above video. I'm glad Undaunted posted it. I hope the right people in Thai government are listening, but I won't be holding my breath about that.
I still believe if the politicians had not interfered with the outcome of the last election and did not sabotage Pita from becoming Prime Minister despite his overwhelming election victory, many of these problems would be solved and some wouldn't exist in the first place.
I disagree with Dodger. I'm very pleased with the way he presented the video. I think he's right to be "as mad as hell".
I still believe if the politicians had not interfered with the outcome of the last election and did not sabotage Pita from becoming Prime Minister despite his overwhelming election victory, many of these problems would be solved and some wouldn't exist in the first place.
I disagree with Dodger. I'm very pleased with the way he presented the video. I think he's right to be "as mad as hell".
Re: Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
That's the problem, there are no "right people".
A foreigner venting his resentments towards the Thai government like Benjamin is doing and then broadcasting it on social media is a bit risky - to put it mildly.
- 2lz2p
- Posts: 1026
- Joined: Sun Aug 01, 2010 8:08 am
- Location: Pattaya, Thailand (Jomtien)
- Has thanked: 159 times
- Been thanked: 129 times
Re: Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
After looking at the Thai Revenue Department (TRD) webpages (in English), especially the 2023 tax form and instructions for its preparation, only assessable income needs be reported. Thus, any income that is "exempt" from Thai income tax by virtue of a Dual Tax Agreement, would not fall in that category, i.e., not assessable income.
In my case, my income is predominantly my pension based on being retired from Federal Civil Service. Thus, it is pension for government service and under the Dual Tax Agreement with the USA, it is exempt from Thai income tax (as are US Social Security payments). So, I do not plan to file a Thai income tax return as all my money transferred into Thailand in 2024 is exempt.
In that regard, I received an email from an acquaintance here in Pattaya with the following message which confirms my understanding:
In my case, my income is predominantly my pension based on being retired from Federal Civil Service. Thus, it is pension for government service and under the Dual Tax Agreement with the USA, it is exempt from Thai income tax (as are US Social Security payments). So, I do not plan to file a Thai income tax return as all my money transferred into Thailand in 2024 is exempt.
In that regard, I received an email from an acquaintance here in Pattaya with the following message which confirms my understanding:
I will, of course, look at the 2024 Thai income tax form when it becomes available (should be after 1 January 2025) to see if it is basically the same and a report is required only if you have assessable income.I just returned from the Thai Revenue Department here in Jomtien. I thought I would get a Thai Taxpayer ID for the new Thai Tax filing. I'm an American and retired from DHS (a US govt pension) which I send about 80% of my net retirement pension here to BKK bank monthly (about 160,000 THB).
They (the Revenue Department) said I didn't need to as the US has a double taxation agreement with Thailand which exempts my US Govt pension.
Re: Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
Much appreciated.2lz2p wrote: ↑Fri Dec 13, 2024 3:30 pm
After looking at the Thai Revenue Department (TRD) webpages (in English), especially the 2023 tax form and instructions for its preparation, only assessable income needs be reported. Thus, any income that is "exempt" from Thai income tax by virtue of a Dual Tax Agreement, would not fall in that category, i.e., not assessable income.
This is probably the most accurate and concise information we've seen to date.
Why the Revenue Dept hasn't provided this clarification to everyone remains a mystery.
Thanks again.
- Gaybutton
- Posts: 23442
- Joined: Sat Jul 31, 2010 11:21 am
- Location: Thailand
- Has thanked: 3 times
- Been thanked: 1550 times
Re: Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
A taxing question
The finance minister's comprehensive tax reform plan drew widespread criticism, but highlights the urgent need to update the system
December 16, 2024
Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira recently unveiled a comprehensive tax reform plan designed to increase state revenue, support national development, enhance competitiveness and reduce domestic disparities.
His proposals were highlighted during the Sustainability Forum 2025 that promoted sustainable economic development, where he outlined significant changes to the taxation system.
A key measure is reducing the corporate income tax rate to remain globally competitive and align with OECD guidelines, which recommend a 15% corporate income tax rate for all businesses. Thailand's current corporate income tax rate is 20%.
Mr Pichai also proposed lowering the personal income tax from the current maximum of 35%, mirroring global trends aimed at attracting skilled workers.
Another major reform involves increasing the long-standing value-added tax (VAT) rate, which has remained at 7% since 1992, rising to potentially 15%.
Despite the rationale behind these proposals, the VAT hike has drawn intense criticism. Critics argue raising the VAT would disproportionately impact low-income households and exacerbate living costs.
In response to this backlash, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra swiftly distanced the government from the VAT hike proposal, insisting it would not proceed.
FOCUS ON FAIRNESS
Athiphat Muthitacharoen, an economist at Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Economics and a former economist for the US Congressional Budget Office, said such proposals come as no surprise because the government's fiscal burdens have significantly increased.
One area of concern is the ratio of interest expenses to the government's net revenue, a key metric measured by credit rating agencies.
The current ratio is 8%, but it is projected to exceed 14% in 3-4 years because of the government's substantial borrowing and declining tax revenue.
In two years, the ratio is expected to rise to 12%, placing Thailand at risk of a credit rating downgrade because countries that fall below investment-grade levels typically have a ratio of 10%, he said.
"Discussing tax reform is a complex issue that affects a broad spectrum of people. Simply proposing an increase in VAT alone is insufficient; we need to take into account the entire tax system," said Mr Athiphat.
"If such reform is to be undertaken, the government should consider three key conditions: the overall tax burdens of both businesses and households; the effective use of tax revenue; and a gradual implementation."
He said when considering the tax burden on both businesses and households, the government needs to find a way to make tax hikes appear fair to society.
For example, salaried employees bear 80% of the total personal income tax burden. However, only 4 million individuals pay personal income tax, though the labour force tallies 40 million. This means only 10% of the total workforce pays income tax.
"How can we ensure this group feels a sense of fairness? All tax deductions need to be reviewed to determine which ones are reasonable because income can generally be categorised into three types: from employment, such as salaries; from capital, such as capital gains from the stock market, dividends or interest; and from business operations," said Mr Athiphat.
"It's evident the majority of fully taxed income comes from employment, while capital income benefits from exemptions, as capital gains are not taxed, and business income is often difficult to track, particularly under Sections 40 (7) and (8) of the Revenue Code. It is essential to ensure fairness across these income types."
People also want to see their tax money is being used effectively, not only to combat corruption, but also to ensure investments and spending programmes are efficiently allocated and deliver tangible benefits, he said.
Moreover, Mr Athiphat said most successful countries do not raise taxes abruptly. For example, Japan planned its VAT increase from 5% to 10% over a five-year timeline, implementing the first hike in 2014 and reaching 10% in 2019.
Similarly, Thailand should establish a clear timeline for tax increases, allowing businesses to plan ahead while implementing measures to mitigate the impact on low-income groups, he said.
For instance, Japan maintains a lower VAT rate on essential goods. Some countries offer tax rebates for low-income individuals. Thailand could adopt a similar approach, such as increasing VAT to 10%, but refunding 3% to low-income earners, said Mr Athiphat.
In many countries, this is done by requiring goods be paid for via electronic systems. Thailand has the Pao Tang app, which could be used to determine whether an individual qualifies for assistance, and to process refunds directly through the app, he said.
"Tax reform must take into account the overall system to ensure fairness. For example, if VAT is increased, we must find ways to make it equitable. This means revisiting the entire tax base, including whether exemptions and deductions are still fair," said Mr Athiphat.
"If we don't address this, those already paying personal income tax -- such as salaried employees -- will have to bear the additional burden of the increased VAT. Only 4 million people pay personal income tax, meaning many others are not yet contributing."
He said although Thailand's top personal income tax rate is 35%, research shows the effective rate, after accounting for various exemptions and deductions, is only around 10% for those at the top rate, not the full 35%.
Thailand's corporate income tax rate is the lowest in Southeast Asia, second only to Singapore. In comparison, Malaysia's corporate tax rate is 24%. Thailand's investment promotion measures through the Board of Investment (BoI) remain competitive with other countries in the region.
"I believe the motive behind tax reform should be to increase revenue, not reduce taxes. If we lower taxes further, it will only worsen the fiscal burden. If our credit rating is downgraded, the chances of attracting investors will become even more difficult," said Mr Athiphat.
GRADUAL INCREASE
Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said Thailand's tax revenue accounts for only 17% of its GDP, a relatively low figure compared with other middle-income developing nations. While around 11 million individuals are registered as taxpayers, only 4 million actively contribute to the system.
"We need to enhance tax collection efforts and involve more citizens in the tax system," he said.
To drive economic growth and foster development, Mr Sanan stressed the importance of attracting foreign investment.
The chamber has advanced several proposals aimed at attracting more expatriates and enhancing foreign investment through tax and business incentives. A key proposal is reducing the corporate income tax rate to enhance Thailand's competitiveness, he said.
According to Mr Sanan, a reduction from 20% to 15% has been recommended, with dual benefits. First, it would alleviate tax burdens for companies, allowing them to hire more staff and better manage production costs, thus controlling inflation. Second, it would make the country more appealing to foreign investors.
Corporate income tax generates around 700 billion baht annually. A reduction of five percentage points could result in a revenue loss of about 130 billion baht.
To offset this shortfall, he suggested raising VAT, which contributes roughly one-third of total government revenue, amounting to around 900 billion baht annually. According to estimates by the chamber and the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, a 1% VAT increase could yield an additional 130 billion baht, effectively covering the loss in corporate tax revenue.
Mr Sanan said VAT hikes have been floated for decades, as the law allows an increase to 10%. However, successive governments have maintained the VAT rate at 7% since inception.
"The chamber supports a gradual increase, similar to Japan's approach, where VAT was first raised from 7% to 8%, then later to 10%. If Thailand's economy shows signs of recovery next year, hiking the VAT to 8% could help offset the loss in corporate tax revenue," he said.
Once the tax rate stabilises at an optimal level and the economy thrives, further increases from 8% to 10% could be considered, allowing individuals and businesses to adjust gradually while supporting long-term economic recovery, said Mr Sanan.
Somchai Sittichaisrichart, managing director of IT product distributor SiS Distribution, said the government has been spending more than it earns in revenue in recent years, a practice he deemed unsustainable.
He proposed increasing VAT collection as an effective way to boost government revenue, noting VAT charges are difficult for individuals to avoid.
"Neighbouring countries have VAT rates of 9-10%, while Thailand continues to maintain a lower rate," said Mr Somchai.
He said Singapore implemented a 9% goods and services tax, equivalent to VAT, while Indonesia's VAT is set at 11%, China's at 13% and Japan's at 10%.
Mr Somchai said Thailand's corporate income tax collection remains relatively low because of the small base of corporate taxpayers.
DUBIOUS IDEA
Tanit Sorat, vice-chairman of the Employers' Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry, said the government's proposal to impose new tax rates on employers and employees raises questions about the potential benefits, particularly its goal of reducing domestic disparities.
However, he conceded Thailand could gain long-term advantages if the plan is implemented effectively.
While the government does need to replenish its dwindling coffers, Mr Tanit expressed concerns about the proposed tax adjustments, such as lower corporate and personal income tax rates alongside higher consumption taxes, potentially having adverse effects on the economy.
He said the proposal to reduce corporate income tax is questionable, noting the BoI already offers tax incentive packages to attract corporate investment, making this tax reduction less critical for increasing investment.
The reduction in corporate income tax rates, from 20% to 15%, may not be necessary for some companies, even though the lower rate is expected to help reduce the prices of goods.
"Many companies already have their own pricing strategies, such as offering discounts, to sustain their businesses," said Mr Tanit.
The proposed hike in VAT could also pose challenges by driving up production costs along the supply chain, he said.
"Take fish cans as an example. We need tinplate to make cans, lacquer for a protective coating, boxes and other materials for labelling and packaging. Prices of these materials will inevitably increase," said Mr Tanit.
While tax hikes could bolster state revenue, following years of budget deficits that led to borrowing, resulting in surging public debt, he cautioned tax reforms could lead to public backlash.
"Authorities may intend to use the additional revenue for new development projects, but I'm afraid it will be used to support populist policies," said Mr Tanit.
"The proposal appears to be a test of public sentiment, akin to the Thai idiom of throwing a stone to gauge directions or feedback. But in this case, the stone seems to have hit a wall and bounced back to the thrower."
REDUCED FINANCIAL BURDEN
Natee Sithiprassasana, managing director of Surat Thani Green Energy, a biomass power plant operator, said a lower corporate income tax will ease financial pressures, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggling to cope with the influx of low-cost Chinese imports.
"SMEs have limited budgets, so lower tax obligations combined with new state measures can provide essential support to their businesses," said Mr Natee.
He said local companies find it difficult to compete with cheap Chinese imports, driven by US trade barriers on Chinese goods.
Mr Natee said he was concerned about the impact of a VAT hike on small restaurants, as higher food prices could reduce customer numbers. He also stressed the need for greater fairness in VAT collection, as exporters are exempt from paying VAT on materials purchased for export purposes. However, SMEs involved in supply chains for exported products are still required to pay VAT, as they do not directly sell their goods abroad.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/ge ... g-question
The finance minister's comprehensive tax reform plan drew widespread criticism, but highlights the urgent need to update the system
December 16, 2024
Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira recently unveiled a comprehensive tax reform plan designed to increase state revenue, support national development, enhance competitiveness and reduce domestic disparities.
His proposals were highlighted during the Sustainability Forum 2025 that promoted sustainable economic development, where he outlined significant changes to the taxation system.
A key measure is reducing the corporate income tax rate to remain globally competitive and align with OECD guidelines, which recommend a 15% corporate income tax rate for all businesses. Thailand's current corporate income tax rate is 20%.
Mr Pichai also proposed lowering the personal income tax from the current maximum of 35%, mirroring global trends aimed at attracting skilled workers.
Another major reform involves increasing the long-standing value-added tax (VAT) rate, which has remained at 7% since 1992, rising to potentially 15%.
Despite the rationale behind these proposals, the VAT hike has drawn intense criticism. Critics argue raising the VAT would disproportionately impact low-income households and exacerbate living costs.
In response to this backlash, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra swiftly distanced the government from the VAT hike proposal, insisting it would not proceed.
FOCUS ON FAIRNESS
Athiphat Muthitacharoen, an economist at Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Economics and a former economist for the US Congressional Budget Office, said such proposals come as no surprise because the government's fiscal burdens have significantly increased.
One area of concern is the ratio of interest expenses to the government's net revenue, a key metric measured by credit rating agencies.
The current ratio is 8%, but it is projected to exceed 14% in 3-4 years because of the government's substantial borrowing and declining tax revenue.
In two years, the ratio is expected to rise to 12%, placing Thailand at risk of a credit rating downgrade because countries that fall below investment-grade levels typically have a ratio of 10%, he said.
"Discussing tax reform is a complex issue that affects a broad spectrum of people. Simply proposing an increase in VAT alone is insufficient; we need to take into account the entire tax system," said Mr Athiphat.
"If such reform is to be undertaken, the government should consider three key conditions: the overall tax burdens of both businesses and households; the effective use of tax revenue; and a gradual implementation."
He said when considering the tax burden on both businesses and households, the government needs to find a way to make tax hikes appear fair to society.
For example, salaried employees bear 80% of the total personal income tax burden. However, only 4 million individuals pay personal income tax, though the labour force tallies 40 million. This means only 10% of the total workforce pays income tax.
"How can we ensure this group feels a sense of fairness? All tax deductions need to be reviewed to determine which ones are reasonable because income can generally be categorised into three types: from employment, such as salaries; from capital, such as capital gains from the stock market, dividends or interest; and from business operations," said Mr Athiphat.
"It's evident the majority of fully taxed income comes from employment, while capital income benefits from exemptions, as capital gains are not taxed, and business income is often difficult to track, particularly under Sections 40 (7) and (8) of the Revenue Code. It is essential to ensure fairness across these income types."
People also want to see their tax money is being used effectively, not only to combat corruption, but also to ensure investments and spending programmes are efficiently allocated and deliver tangible benefits, he said.
Moreover, Mr Athiphat said most successful countries do not raise taxes abruptly. For example, Japan planned its VAT increase from 5% to 10% over a five-year timeline, implementing the first hike in 2014 and reaching 10% in 2019.
Similarly, Thailand should establish a clear timeline for tax increases, allowing businesses to plan ahead while implementing measures to mitigate the impact on low-income groups, he said.
For instance, Japan maintains a lower VAT rate on essential goods. Some countries offer tax rebates for low-income individuals. Thailand could adopt a similar approach, such as increasing VAT to 10%, but refunding 3% to low-income earners, said Mr Athiphat.
In many countries, this is done by requiring goods be paid for via electronic systems. Thailand has the Pao Tang app, which could be used to determine whether an individual qualifies for assistance, and to process refunds directly through the app, he said.
"Tax reform must take into account the overall system to ensure fairness. For example, if VAT is increased, we must find ways to make it equitable. This means revisiting the entire tax base, including whether exemptions and deductions are still fair," said Mr Athiphat.
"If we don't address this, those already paying personal income tax -- such as salaried employees -- will have to bear the additional burden of the increased VAT. Only 4 million people pay personal income tax, meaning many others are not yet contributing."
He said although Thailand's top personal income tax rate is 35%, research shows the effective rate, after accounting for various exemptions and deductions, is only around 10% for those at the top rate, not the full 35%.
Thailand's corporate income tax rate is the lowest in Southeast Asia, second only to Singapore. In comparison, Malaysia's corporate tax rate is 24%. Thailand's investment promotion measures through the Board of Investment (BoI) remain competitive with other countries in the region.
"I believe the motive behind tax reform should be to increase revenue, not reduce taxes. If we lower taxes further, it will only worsen the fiscal burden. If our credit rating is downgraded, the chances of attracting investors will become even more difficult," said Mr Athiphat.
GRADUAL INCREASE
Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said Thailand's tax revenue accounts for only 17% of its GDP, a relatively low figure compared with other middle-income developing nations. While around 11 million individuals are registered as taxpayers, only 4 million actively contribute to the system.
"We need to enhance tax collection efforts and involve more citizens in the tax system," he said.
To drive economic growth and foster development, Mr Sanan stressed the importance of attracting foreign investment.
The chamber has advanced several proposals aimed at attracting more expatriates and enhancing foreign investment through tax and business incentives. A key proposal is reducing the corporate income tax rate to enhance Thailand's competitiveness, he said.
According to Mr Sanan, a reduction from 20% to 15% has been recommended, with dual benefits. First, it would alleviate tax burdens for companies, allowing them to hire more staff and better manage production costs, thus controlling inflation. Second, it would make the country more appealing to foreign investors.
Corporate income tax generates around 700 billion baht annually. A reduction of five percentage points could result in a revenue loss of about 130 billion baht.
To offset this shortfall, he suggested raising VAT, which contributes roughly one-third of total government revenue, amounting to around 900 billion baht annually. According to estimates by the chamber and the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, a 1% VAT increase could yield an additional 130 billion baht, effectively covering the loss in corporate tax revenue.
Mr Sanan said VAT hikes have been floated for decades, as the law allows an increase to 10%. However, successive governments have maintained the VAT rate at 7% since inception.
"The chamber supports a gradual increase, similar to Japan's approach, where VAT was first raised from 7% to 8%, then later to 10%. If Thailand's economy shows signs of recovery next year, hiking the VAT to 8% could help offset the loss in corporate tax revenue," he said.
Once the tax rate stabilises at an optimal level and the economy thrives, further increases from 8% to 10% could be considered, allowing individuals and businesses to adjust gradually while supporting long-term economic recovery, said Mr Sanan.
Somchai Sittichaisrichart, managing director of IT product distributor SiS Distribution, said the government has been spending more than it earns in revenue in recent years, a practice he deemed unsustainable.
He proposed increasing VAT collection as an effective way to boost government revenue, noting VAT charges are difficult for individuals to avoid.
"Neighbouring countries have VAT rates of 9-10%, while Thailand continues to maintain a lower rate," said Mr Somchai.
He said Singapore implemented a 9% goods and services tax, equivalent to VAT, while Indonesia's VAT is set at 11%, China's at 13% and Japan's at 10%.
Mr Somchai said Thailand's corporate income tax collection remains relatively low because of the small base of corporate taxpayers.
DUBIOUS IDEA
Tanit Sorat, vice-chairman of the Employers' Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry, said the government's proposal to impose new tax rates on employers and employees raises questions about the potential benefits, particularly its goal of reducing domestic disparities.
However, he conceded Thailand could gain long-term advantages if the plan is implemented effectively.
While the government does need to replenish its dwindling coffers, Mr Tanit expressed concerns about the proposed tax adjustments, such as lower corporate and personal income tax rates alongside higher consumption taxes, potentially having adverse effects on the economy.
He said the proposal to reduce corporate income tax is questionable, noting the BoI already offers tax incentive packages to attract corporate investment, making this tax reduction less critical for increasing investment.
The reduction in corporate income tax rates, from 20% to 15%, may not be necessary for some companies, even though the lower rate is expected to help reduce the prices of goods.
"Many companies already have their own pricing strategies, such as offering discounts, to sustain their businesses," said Mr Tanit.
The proposed hike in VAT could also pose challenges by driving up production costs along the supply chain, he said.
"Take fish cans as an example. We need tinplate to make cans, lacquer for a protective coating, boxes and other materials for labelling and packaging. Prices of these materials will inevitably increase," said Mr Tanit.
While tax hikes could bolster state revenue, following years of budget deficits that led to borrowing, resulting in surging public debt, he cautioned tax reforms could lead to public backlash.
"Authorities may intend to use the additional revenue for new development projects, but I'm afraid it will be used to support populist policies," said Mr Tanit.
"The proposal appears to be a test of public sentiment, akin to the Thai idiom of throwing a stone to gauge directions or feedback. But in this case, the stone seems to have hit a wall and bounced back to the thrower."
REDUCED FINANCIAL BURDEN
Natee Sithiprassasana, managing director of Surat Thani Green Energy, a biomass power plant operator, said a lower corporate income tax will ease financial pressures, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggling to cope with the influx of low-cost Chinese imports.
"SMEs have limited budgets, so lower tax obligations combined with new state measures can provide essential support to their businesses," said Mr Natee.
He said local companies find it difficult to compete with cheap Chinese imports, driven by US trade barriers on Chinese goods.
Mr Natee said he was concerned about the impact of a VAT hike on small restaurants, as higher food prices could reduce customer numbers. He also stressed the need for greater fairness in VAT collection, as exporters are exempt from paying VAT on materials purchased for export purposes. However, SMEs involved in supply chains for exported products are still required to pay VAT, as they do not directly sell their goods abroad.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/ge ... g-question
Re: Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
If what we're reading is an accurate picture of where they stand right now regarding Tax System Reform they haven't even got to the "start position" yet. They apparently haven't even agreed on the Guiding Principles yet, let alone gain political commitment for its sustainability which has to happen before a rough draft of an implementation plan and timeline can even be produced.
This is going to involve a very long and complex process...my guess is it will take them years to implement (not months), and even then the success of the Reform will rely heavily on the skills and capabilities of those in the Finance Ministry and Revenue Dept to manage, which, in my opinion, could possibly stretch the timeline out even farther...2035???
This is going to be like a Marx Brothers movie...with Harpo and Chico pulling each others hair out - while Groucho sits at a table trying to figure out how to work a calculator...
This is going to involve a very long and complex process...my guess is it will take them years to implement (not months), and even then the success of the Reform will rely heavily on the skills and capabilities of those in the Finance Ministry and Revenue Dept to manage, which, in my opinion, could possibly stretch the timeline out even farther...2035???
This is going to be like a Marx Brothers movie...with Harpo and Chico pulling each others hair out - while Groucho sits at a table trying to figure out how to work a calculator...

- 2lz2p
- Posts: 1026
- Joined: Sun Aug 01, 2010 8:08 am
- Location: Pattaya, Thailand (Jomtien)
- Has thanked: 159 times
- Been thanked: 129 times
Re: Taxes … more fuel to the fire!!
For those that may be interested, the Pattaya City Expats Club webpage for Expats about Thai Income Tax, they have added the location of the two Thai Revenue Offices serving Pattaya - one is in the Banglamung District Office and the other has a separate building located off of Jomtien 2nd Road - https://pcec.club/Thai-Income-Tax-Expat-Information.
It appears getting a TIN at either of these offices takes about 10 to 15 minutes and there is no fee. Documents required are (sign the copies and bring also bring originals with you):
It appears getting a TIN at either of these offices takes about 10 to 15 minutes and there is no fee. Documents required are (sign the copies and bring also bring originals with you):
- Application for TIN (it is in Thai) [they have a report from an Expat who completed the form using Google Translate]
- Copy of Passport identity page, latest Visa or Extension
- Proof of residence (rental agreement, house book,etc. - with copy of owner ID card, house book ) [the report from Expat said he used yellow book & pink ID]