How to File the WHT Return for the 2024/25 Tax Year in Sri Lanka

The Withholding Tax (WHT) return for the 2024/25 tax year is due soon, and withholding agents must ensure they file it correctly and on time. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about filing the WHT return for the tax year April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025.

Who Needs to File the WHT Return?

Any business or individual who has deducted WHT on payments made to employees, contractors, or non-residents during the 2024/25 tax year must file the WHT return with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).

If your business has deducted withholding tax on interest, dividends, or other specified payments, you are required to submit the return, regardless of the number of transactions.

WHT Filing Deadline for 2024/25

Deadline to file the WHT return: April 30, 2025
Late filing penalties: Failure to submit the return on time may result in fines or penalties imposed by the IRD.

Documents & Information Needed for Filing

Before starting the filing process, ensure you have:

Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for the withholding agent
Detailed list of withholdees (including their TIN/NIC)
Records of payments made, including interest, dividends, or any other payments subject to WHT
Total WHT deducted during the 2024/25 tax year
Monthly WHT payments made and corresponding IRD payment references

How to File the WHT Return for 2024/25

The WHT return must be submitted electronically via the IRD’s e-Services portal.

Step 1: Log in to the IRD’s e-Services Portal

Visit www.ird.gov.lk
Click on e-Services Login
Enter your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and password

Step 2: Navigate to the WHT Return Section

Select Return Management
Choose Withholding Tax (WHT) Return for the 2024/25 tax year

Step 3: Enter WHT Details

Schedule 01 (Interest/Discount): Enter details for WHT on interest or discount payments. Include the name, TIN/NIC of the withholdee, amount paid, and WHT deducted.
Schedule 2A/2B (Other Payments): Fill out these schedules for payments made to residents (2A) and non-residents (2B) excluding interest or discount payments.
Monthly Payment Summary: Ensure that the monthly WHT deductions and payments align with the records.

Step 4: Verify & Submit

Review all data for accuracy
Click Submit
Upon submission, you will receive a Submission Reference Number as proof of filing

Key Considerations for the 2024/25 WHT Return

✅ Reconciliation: Make sure that your monthly WHT payments match the amount declared on the return. Any discrepancies may trigger audits or penalties.

✅ Certificates for Withholdees: If you issued WHT certificates to withholdees, ensure they are properly documented for their records.

✅ Late Filing Risks: Delayed filings may result in fines, interest charges, or compliance issues with the IRD.

What Happens After Filing?

The IRD will process the return and verify the submitted data. If any discrepancies are identified, they may request clarification or corrections. Once all data matches, the return will be successfully filed.

WHT Changes Effective from April 1, 2025

🚨 Important: Starting April 1, 2025, new tax rates may apply. Be sure to stay updated with the latest tax rates to ensure accurate filings for the upcoming tax years.

Final Reminder: File WHT for 2024/25 Before April 30, 2025!

Withholding agents must complete their WHT return for the 2024/25 tax year by April 30, 2025, to remain compliant with Sri Lanka’s tax regulations.

For assistance with WHT filing, contact Biz Advisor’s tax professionals today! 🚀