Tax office late? When you’re owed interest

19 March 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Find out when tax office delay interest applies and how to check your refund status in Poland.

The tax office delay interest affects many taxpayers this season. Consequently, if you filed a PIT and expect a refund, you should know your rights and timelines.

Table of Contents

How refunds normally work

Polish tax authorities process millions of returns each year. Moreover, the system distinguishes between electronic and paper filings. Therefore, electronic returns often move faster through e-Urząd Skarbowy on podatki.gov.pl. In addition, banks and clearing systems can add a day or two before you see the money. However, delays still happen during busy periods.

tax office delay interest: when you can claim it

The tax office must return an overpayment within the statutory timeframe. Consequently, if the office misses that deadline, it must pay interest on the delayed amount. In practice, interest accrues from the day after the payment should have arrived. Moreover, the interest compensates taxpayers for the time they lacked access to their funds.

How to check your refund status

First, log into the official portal at podatki.gov.pl. Moreover, use the e-Urząd Skarbowy service or the Twój e-PIT area. In addition, you can check whether your return has the label “zwrot nadpłaty” or similar. Second, confirm your bank details. Therefore, ensure your Polish account accepts transfers and matches your PESEL (national ID) or NIP (tax ID). However, if you do not have a PESEL, provide your NIP and proof of identity.

Third, call your local tax office. Consequently, speak to an officer and ask for a status update. In addition, you can send a message via ePUAP or request an appointment. Moreover, if you live abroad, give a Polish representative power of attorney to act on your behalf.

What to do if the refund is late

Document every contact with the office. Moreover, keep screenshots of online status pages. In addition, note dates when the return reached the authority. Therefore, you build the record needed to claim interest. If the office refuses to pay, consider a formal complaint. However, many cases resolve after a brief escalation.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: As an expat, you must keep a Polish bank account or provide an IBAN for refunds. Also, register for the government portal with a trusted profile (Profil Zaufany) or ePUAP. In addition, keep your PESEL (national ID) or NIP (tax ID) handy. If you pay social security (ZUS) or use public health services (NFZ), ensure your addresses and IDs match across systems to avoid processing problems. Finally, if you receive a fine (mandat) or formal notice, respond quickly to avoid penalties.

Finally, remember that tax offices handle refunds as part of larger financial procedures. Therefore, patience helps. However, know your rights and pursue interest if the office delays payment.

Source: Read original article