What is Withholding Tax?

Withholding tax is a tax levied on income, such as wages, interest, or dividends, that is paid to a non-resident of the country where the income is earned. The company or individual making the payment must withhold a portion of the payment and remit it to the tax authorities. The amount of withholding tax can vary depending on the country, the type of income, and the tax treaty in place between the two countries.

In some cases, tax treaties may be in place between the country where the income is earned and the country where the non-resident taxpayer is based. These treaties often provide for a reduced withholding tax rate, or even exemption from withholding tax, in order to encourage cross-border trade and investment.

It is important for companies to accurately record and report their withholding tax obligations to avoid penalties and interest charges. In addition, companies should carefully monitor changes in tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance and optimize tax planning strategies.

Journal Entries for Withholding Tax

Journal entry for withholding tax on interest payment

Example: ABC Canada Inc. pays interest of $100,000 to its non-resident parent, ABC Switzerland AG. As the parties do not deal at arm’s length, and in accordance with the Canada-Switzerland Tax Treaty, the interest payment is subject to a 10% withholding tax. ABC Switzerland AG, therefore, receives a net payment of $90,000.

Account
Interest expense$100,000
Withholding tax liability$10,000
Cash$90,000

Journal entry for remittance of withholding tax

Example: ABC Canada Inc. must remit the withholding tax withheld on the interest payment to ABC Switzerland AG, to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Account
Withholding tax liability$10,000
Cash$10,000

Author

Mark is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) in Canada, and has worked in the accounting field for over 25 years with a variety of companies including small to large privately held and public companies. Mark now runs his own accounting firm and is dedicated to helping individuals and small business owners. Mark enjoys coaching and mentoring small business owners on how to best handle their business finances.