Income tax on rent, worked example, in Hong Kong

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Non-resident couple´s rental income1
Monthly Rental Income2 1,500 6,000 12,000
Annual Rental Income 18,000 72,000 144,000
Less: Rates paid by the owners3 (900) (3,600) (7,200)
= Assessable Value 17,100 68,400 136,800
Less: Standard allowance for repairs and outgoings (20%)4 (3,420) (13,680) (27,360)
= Taxable Income 13,680 54,720 109,440
Income Tax 5
Standard rate 15% 2,052 8,208 16,416
Annual Income Tax Due 2,052 8,208 16,416
Tax Due as % of Gross Income 11.40% 11.40% 11.40%
Source:
Global Property Guide research

Notes


1 The property is jointly owned by husband and wife.

2 Exchange rate used: 1.00 US$ = 8.00 HKD

3 Rates agreed to be paid and actually paid by the owner of the property are deductible for property tax purpose. They are charged at a percentage of the rateable value, which is the estimated annual rental value of the property at a designated valuation reference date. The current rates percentage for financial year 2006-2007 is 5%. In this case, the rateable values are assumed to be the same as the annual rental incoem generated by the properties.

4 The Hong Kong Inland Revenue Ordinance stipulates a flat rate of 20% on the assessable value (gross income less rates paid by the owners) as allowance deductible for repairs and outgoing expenses. No other expenses other than the rates paid by the owner,irrecoverable rent, and the 20% standard allowance can be deducted.

5 Property tax is imposed at a flat rate of 15%.