Paying your Spanish Council Tax aka SUMA

Spanish SUMA: What You Need to Know About the Voluntary Payment Deadline on October 8th

If you live in the province of Alicante or own property there, you may already be familiar with SUMA Gestión Tributaria, the regional agency responsible for collecting local taxes in the province. SUMA handles everything from property taxes to traffic fines, but the key aspect of SUMA that many taxpayers focus on is the voluntary payment period. For this year, October 8th marks the final day to make your voluntary payments—an important date to remember for avoiding extra fees and penalties.

In this post, we'll dive into what SUMA is, what the voluntary payment period means, and why meeting the deadline is crucial for your financial well-being.

What is SUMA?

SUMA Gestión Tributaria is an organization dedicated to managing the collection of local taxes and other revenues for municipalities within the Alicante province. Its main responsibility is ensuring that taxes such as:

• Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles (IBI) – Property tax
• Impuesto sobre Vehículos de Tracción Mecánica (IVTM) – Vehicle tax
• Rubbish collection fees
• Fines and penalties related to local issues

...are collected on behalf of each municipality. SUMA operates as a middleman, so while your tax payments go through SUMA, the revenue is funneled to your local town or city.

What is the Voluntary Payment Period?

The voluntary payment period is a window of time during which you can settle your local taxes without incurring any additional charges or penalties. For many, this means paying property tax or vehicle tax in a timely manner.

For 2024, the voluntary payment deadline is October 8th, marking the final date for you to clear your obligations without being penalized. SUMA provides this extended timeframe so that taxpayers can settle their dues in a manageable way.

Failing to pay before this date will move your outstanding balances into the enforcement phase—which can lead to late fees, interest, and even legal action.

What Happens If You Miss the October 8th Deadline?

If you fail to make your payments by the end of the voluntary period, SUMA will move your account into the enforcement process (recargo ejecutivo). Here's what you can expect if that happens:

1. Late Fees: A surcharge of 5% is immediately added to your outstanding amount once you enter the enforcement phase. This percentage climbs to 10% if more time passes without payment and can eventually reach 20%.
2. Interest on Overdue Taxes: In addition to surcharges, interest is also applied, further increasing the total amount you owe.
3. Legal Actions: In extreme cases, SUMA can initiate legal proceedings to collect overdue payments. This could include wage garnishment or liens on your property or vehicles.

How to Make Your SUMA Payments Before October 8th

To avoid unnecessary fees, it's important to make your payments before the October 8th deadline. Fortunately, SUMA offers several convenient ways to pay:

• Online Payments: You can pay via the SUMA website using a credit or debit card. This is the easiest method for most people, as it allows you to pay from the comfort of your home.
• In-Person Payments: For those who prefer a more personal touch, you can visit any SUMA office or even certain banks that collaborate with SUMA. Be sure to bring your payment reference number and identification.
• Direct Debit: One of the simplest ways to never miss a deadline is to set up a direct debit. This ensures that your payments are automatically deducted from your bank account, so you don’t have to worry about tracking deadlines each year.
• Phone Payments: If you’re unable to make it to an office and prefer not to pay online, SUMA also accepts payments over the phone. All you need is your reference number and a valid card to complete the process.

Why Meeting the October 8th Deadline Matters

While it might seem easy to let a tax payment slip by, the consequences can build up quickly. Missing the voluntary payment deadline could lead to paying significantly more than the original amount due. It’s also worth noting that SUMA’s enforcement actions can disrupt your financial situation if ignored long enough.

By staying on top of your SUMA obligations and paying before October 8th, you can avoid unnecessary fees and ensure you stay in good standing with the local government. Remember, staying informed about local deadlines like these helps you better manage your finances and avoid complications down the road.

Final Thoughts

The voluntary payment period for SUMA taxes in Alicante province ends on October 8th, 2024. If you haven't yet settled your local taxes, now is the time to do so. Whether it’s paying online, setting up a direct debit, or stopping by a SUMA office, there are plenty of ways to make the process easier for you. Missing the deadline could result in hefty surcharges and legal issues, so make sure you act before it’s too late.

If you're unsure about what you owe or need help with the payment process, you can always visit the official SUMA website or contact their customer service for assistance. CLICK HERE: Oficina virtual | Suma Gestión Tributaria - Organismo autónomo de gestión tributaria de la Diputación de Alicante or call them on: +34 965 292 000