Filing your tax return in Hungary - 2025 guide

This blog post will guide you through the process of filing your 2024 tax returns in Hungary, covering key deadlines, who needs to file, how taxes are paid, and the steps for filing online or offline—all tailored to help expats like you.

Key Deadlines for 2024 Tax Returns

Hungary’s tax season comes with several important dates to keep on your radar. Here’s a breakdown of what each deadline means:

• January 31: Your employer or any payer (like investment funds) must provide you with the M30 document, which details your income and taxes paid during 2024. This is a key piece of paperwork for filing your returns.

• February 17: You’ll receive documents from your employer verifying your eligibility for tax benefits—think contributions to healthcare or pension funds.

• March 15: Drafts of your tax returns become available online via the Hungarian tax authority’s portal.

• March 17: The last day to request a hard copy of your tax return if you prefer to file offline.

• April 30: If you requested a hard copy, it should arrive by this date.

• May 20: The deadline to submit your tax returns, whether online or offline.

Mark these dates on your calendar—missing them could delay refunds or complicate the process!

Do You Need to File Tax Returns in Hungary?

If you were a tax resident in Hungary at any point in 2024, you’re required to file a tax return. You’re likely a tax resident if:

• You earned income in Hungary, or

• You spent most of your time in the country.

Not sure about your status? It’s wise to consult an accountant or international tax advisor. The rules can get tricky, especially for expats with income from multiple countries.

How Taxes Are Paid Throughout the Year

Hungary’s tax system is designed to be automated and hassle-free during the year:

• For employees: Your employer handles everything—calculating and paying your taxes based on your gross salary. If you’re eligible for tax benefits (e.g., pension contributions), let your employer know so they can adjust your net pay accordingly.

• For business owners: Your accountant should remind you to pay personal income tax monthly or when you take dividend advances.

Even though taxes are paid throughout the year, filing a tax return is still necessary. It’s your chance to review the data, make corrections, and claim any refunds.

Claiming Tax Benefits and Refunds

You can apply for tax benefits retroactively when filing your return. For example:

• Contributions to a healthcare or pension fund can earn you a 20% refund, up to a maximum of HUF 150,000. So, if you paid HUF 750,000 into these funds, you could reclaim HUF 150,000—though you’re free to contribute more without additional tax perks.

To claim these, you’ll need supporting documents (received by February 17). Filing your return is the perfect time to ensure you’re not leaving money on the table.

Filing Your Tax Returns: Online vs. Offline

Hungary makes filing straightforward, with options for both online and offline submission.

Online Filing

• How it works: Log in to the tax authority’s portal at https://eszja.nav.gov.hu/ using your Ügyfélkapu or DÁP access. Starting March 15, you’ll find a pre-filled draft of your tax return based on data submitted during the year.

• Why it’s great: It’s free, fast, and convenient. You can review the draft, make changes, submit it, and save a PDF for your records—all from home.

Offline Filing

• How it works: If you don’t have online access, request a hard copy by March 17 (online, by phone, text, or in person). It’ll arrive by April 30, and you can mail it back after filling it out.

• Heads-up: Online is recommended for speed and ease, but offline works if you’re not tech-savvy or lack internet access.

Reviewing Your Draft

Whether you file online or offline, you’ll need to check the draft. Gather these documents beforehand:

• M30 document (by January 31)

• Tax benefit verification (by February 17)

The draft will have most of your info pre-filled, but you can add or correct details—like extra income or tax benefits.

Language Considerations

Here’s a potential hurdle: Tax forms are only in Hungarian. Don’t panic! Each line is numbered, and your supporting documents (like the M30) will indicate which lines they match. With a bit of patience—or help from a friend or professional—you can manage even with limited Hungarian skills.

Submitting Your Tax Returns

The final deadline is May 20, for both online and offline filings. A few tips:

• File early: Avoid last-minute chaos—post offices get crowded, and online servers can slow down. Plus, early filers get refunds faster.

• Double-check: Ensure all income and benefits are included before hitting submit or mailing your form.

The 1+1% Donation: A Hungarian Twist

After filing, you can redirect 1% of your personal income tax to a church and another 1% to an NGO. This unique feature lets you support causes you care about at no extra cost. You’ll see this option online (a second form) or as a separate paper form if filing offline.

Around mid-April, you might notice billboards from NGOs campaigning for your 1%. It’s a small gesture that adds up—consider picking a cause that resonates with you!

Need Help?

Filing taxes in a foreign country can be daunting, but you don’t have to go it alone. At Helpers, we assist expats with everything from tax filing to business setup and residency applications. If you’re feeling stuck, reach out—we’re here to make Hungarian bureaucracy less intimidating.

Conclusion

Filing your 2024 tax returns in Hungary doesn’t have to be stressful. By keeping track of key deadlines (like May 20), gathering your documents (M30, tax benefit proofs), and choosing between online or offline filing, you’ll stay compliant and might even snag a refund. Plus, with the 1+1% donation, you can give back to the community effortlessly. Welcome to tax season, expat-style— you’ve got this!