Chern & Co prepares and files RCT returns for Irish principal contractors and subcontractors in construction, forestry and meat processing: we handle your Relevant Contracts Tax notifications and returns on ROS, check the RCT rate that applies to each subcontractor (0%, 20% or 35%) and keep your deadlines, so you avoid surcharges and keep your subcontractors paid correctly.
What our RCT return service covers
- Contract notifications on ROS for each new contract with a subcontractor
- Payment notifications on ROS before each payment, and passing the deduction authorisation details to the subcontractor
- Checking the monthly Deduction Summary against your records and amending it before the deadline where needed
- Paying or scheduling the RCT due by the 23rd of the month after the return period
- Help for subcontractors: reviewing the RCT deducted from your payments and how it is credited against your tax
- Checking your RCT and ROS registration and helping with RCT registration if needed
- Dealing with Revenue queries on the returns we filed
You see every return before it is filed and approve it first.
What you provide
- Details of each subcontractor and contract: name, tax reference number, nature and location of work, start and end dates and estimated value
- The amount and date of each payment before you pay the subcontractor
- Access to ROS, or authority for Chern & Co to act as your tax agent
- Proof of ID and address of the directors, as required by Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rules
RCT deadlines and rates
- Contract notification: as soon as you enter into a relevant contract with a subcontractor
- Payment notification: before each payment to the subcontractor; Revenue then issues a deduction authorisation with the rate to apply
- Deduction Summary: Revenue builds it from your payment notifications after each return period; if it is correct it stands as your return, and amendments are made by the 23rd
- Payment: RCT deducted must be paid to Revenue by the 23rd of the month after the return period
- Rates: 0%, 20% or 35%, set by Revenue according to the subcontractor’s tax compliance position
Amending a payment notification after the deadline brings a surcharge, so we keep your notifications and returns on time.
How it works
- You contact us, we agree the scope and send an invoice and a service contract.
- We confirm your RCT registration and set up access to ROS.
- You send us contract and payment details as they arise.
- We file the notifications, check the Deduction Summary and send it to you for approval.
- We confirm the return and the amount of RCT to pay by the 23rd.
Who this service is for
Principal contractors and subcontractors in construction, forestry and meat processing in Ireland, including companies with non-resident directors who need a local tax agent for RCT.
Frequently asked questions
What is an RCT return?
For principal contractors, the RCT return is the Deduction Summary that Revenue prepares on ROS from your payment notifications for each return period. You check it, amend it if needed, and pay the RCT due.
When is RCT paid?
RCT deducted from payments to subcontractors is paid to Revenue by the 23rd of the month after the return period.
What are the RCT rates?
0%, 20% or 35%. Revenue sets the rate for each subcontractor according to their tax compliance position and states it in the deduction authorisation.
Do I need to be registered for RCT first?
Yes. You register for RCT on ROS, and you must be registered for Income Tax or Corporation Tax first. If you are not registered yet, see our RCT registration service.
I am a subcontractor. What happens to the RCT deducted from me?
The RCT deducted is credited against your tax liabilities and can be repaid where it exceeds them. We review your deductions and help you claim the credit.
Please note: we are required to collect and verify proof of ID and address under Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rules. We keep all client data secure and confidential.
Have questions? Contact us for a free consultation.
Disclaimer: The content of this page is for information purposes only and is subject to change. It does not constitute professional advice. No liability is accepted by Chern & Co for any actions taken or not taken in reliance on the information set out on this page. Professional, legal or tax advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from any action.