Digital Notices & the Shift to a Paperless IRAS: What It Means for You?
IRAS has been steadily moving towards a fully digital tax administration system. One of the most important steps in this transformation is the introduction of IRAS Digital Notices, for replacing traditional paper correspondence with electronic notifications sent through myTax Portal and MyInfo.
This shift supports Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative, with the aim to improve convenience, security, and sustainability. But what does this change mean for you regardless of you are an individual taxpayer or a corporate entity?
1. What Are IRAS Digital Notices?
a. Digital Notices are the electronic versions of important IRAS documents, such as:
1) Notices of Assessment (NOA)
2) Filing acknowledgements
3) Payment reminders
4) Tax refund letters
5) GST and Corporate Tax correspondence
b. Instead of receiving printed letters, taxpayers now get email or SMS notifications when a new notice is available. These can be accessed securely via myTax Portal.
c. Tip: Please always ensure your contact details (email and mobile number) are up to date in myTax Portal to receive timely alerts.
2. Why IRAS Is Going Paperless
a. IRAS’ move towards paperless communication aligns with three national priorities:
1) Efficiency: Faster delivery and reduced postal delays.
2) Security: Sensitive tax data stays within IRAS’ secure portal for reducing the risk of lost mail or identity theft.
3) Sustainability: Supporting Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 by reducing paper waste.
b. For businesses, this also means easier digital record-keeping and integration with accounting systems.
3. How to Access and Manage Your Digital Notices
a. To view your notices:
1) Log in to myTax Portal at https://mytax.iras.gov.sg/login/selection by using Singpass.
2) Navigate to “Messages / Notices”.
3) Download or print notices as needed for your records.
b. Pro Tip for Businesses: Assign appropriate digital access rights to your company’s tax agents or finance officers under Corppass to ensure they can view your corporate notices.
4. Common Questions About the Paperless Transition
Q1: Will I still receive paper copies?
Ans: IRAS has fully transitioned most notices to digital format. Only certain legacy or special cases may still receive paper copies.
Q2: What if I miss an email alert?
Ans: All notices remain accessible in your portal. Calendar reminders should be set during tax season to check your inbox.
Q3: Can companies opt out?
Ans: No. IRAS’ e-Notice system is now the standard mode of communication. Businesses are expected to maintain digital readiness as part of compliance.
5. The Benefits for Taxpayers
a. The shift brings tangible benefits:
1) 24/7 Access: View your notices anytime and anywhere.
2) Enhanced Data Security: Fewer physical documents to misplace.
3) Streamlined Workflows: Easier coordination between taxpayers, companies, and tax agents.
4) Environmental Impact: Contributing to national sustainability goals.
6. Looking Ahead: A Fully Digital IRAS
a. By 2026, IRAS aims for complete digital integration across tax types including Individual Income, Corporate Income, Property Tax, and GST.
b. The digital notice system lays the foundation for upcoming enhancements like AI-powered filing assistance, real-time tax dashboards, and smart reminders for payment deadlines.
7. Conclusion
The transition to Digital Notices marks a significant milestone in IRAS’ modernization journey. While it may take some getting used to, the benefits in speed, accuracy, and sustainability far outweigh the adjustment.
At Morrison Management, we help individuals and businesses to stay compliant and digitally ready. Our company incorporation services ensure a smooth start for your business, while our accounting and GST filing services allow you to stay focused on growth without worrying about compliance and financial management. Let us handle the details so you can focus on what matters most.
If you need guidance on IRAS’ e-services, digital tax management, or corporate filing strategies, contact us today so that you can get the professional advice from the practitioners who are recognized by Singapore Chartered Tax Professionals (SCTP).
Direct IRAS Links for Reference:
1. https://www.iras.gov.sg/digital-services/others/iras-digital-notices

