ZATCA: File July VAT by August 31 or Face Penalties

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has reminded large businesses across Saudi Arabia that they must submit their July 2026 value-added tax (VAT) return no later than 31 August 2026, or risk facing penalties. The reminder targets establishments subject to VAT whose annual supplies of goods and services exceed SAR 40 million.

Because these larger taxpayers file on a monthly basis, July counts as a separate tax period with its own deadline. Under the general rule, a VAT return must be filed and any tax due paid no later than the last day of the month following the end of the tax period — meaning 31 August for the July period.

The Authority warned that missing the deadline carries financial consequences. The late-filing penalty ranges from a minimum of 5% to a maximum of 25% of the VAT that should have been declared, with the exact percentage depending on how long the delay lasts. A separate late-payment penalty of 5% of the unpaid tax applies for each month or part of a month of delay, and it accumulates over time.

How to file

Large businesses can submit their returns and settle amounts due through ZATCA's e-services portal on its website (zatca.gov.sa) or via the dedicated ZATCA smartphone application. These VAT services are handled only through ZATCA's own portal and app, and are not offered through other government platforms.

For assistance, ZATCA's unified call center on 19993 operates 24/7 for VAT inquiries and technical support, alongside online guides and FAQs on its channels. Filing early helps businesses avoid last-minute technical issues and steep penalties, keeping their tax records in good standing.

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