Poland: SAF-T delay

New date set for implementation of the new SAF-T VAT file

It was announced that the implementation of the new SAF-T VAT file for large businesses has been set for 1 July 2020.

The below are what is considered as a large business:

• Taxpayers with more than 250 people and a turnover of more than EUR 50 million
• Those that employ more than 250 people and the total assets are more than EUR 43 million.

This is the second time the implementation date has been changed – this was originally supposed to be introduced on 1 January 2020 and then on 1 April 2020.

New filing to replace JPK_VAT files and the VAT return

Poland will replace VAT returns with an extended SAF-T requirement. Polish law introduced the new files, JPK_V7M for those taxpayers submitting monthly VAT returns and JPK_V7K for taxpayers submitting quarterly VAT returns. This filing will replace the existing JPK_VAT files and the VAT return and only one submission will be required.

Appropriate structure of the new JPK_VAT is essential

The new files are being extended to include the classification of transaction types and codes that will identify certain types of goods and services. It is very important that the structure of the new JPK_VAT is prepared correctly to avoid irregularities that may result in penalties.

Mandatory for medium & small companies in October 2020

This new obligation will become mandatory for medium and small companies in October 2020. The due date of the new JPK_VAT file will be on the 25th day of the month following the reporting period (monthly or quarterly). If the 25th day falls on a Saturday or a bank holiday – the due date will fall on the next business day.

After the introduction of the new JPK_VAT files, taxpayers will be required to report specific codes to classify the goods or services rendered. There will be penalties if there are errors reported in the JPK_VAT files – the Polish VAT law foresees a fine of PLN 500 for each error.