Denmark - Taxation



Denmark Taxation 1800
Photo by: Gina Sanders

Denmark's taxes are among the highest in the world. Danish residents are liable for tax on global income and net wealth. Nonresidents are liable only for tax on certain types of income from Danish sources. In 1999, the total collected taxes amounted to 51% of the GDP.

The corporate income tax in Denmark is 30%, which must be prepaid during the income tax year to avoid a surcharge.

Personal income tax is collected at state, county and local levels. A tax ceiling ensures that combined income taxes do not exceed 59% of income. Income tax rates are progressive: 39% on income up to €22,118; 45% on income between €22,118 and €36,025; and 60% on income above €36,025. Several kinds of deductions or reductions can be applied to taxable income. There is also a voluntary church tax with an average rate of 0.8%. The social security contribution from employee earnings is 9%, 8% for unemployment insurance and 1% for special pension scheme savings. The voluntary church tax and social security contributions do not count toward the 59% tax ceiling. Tax is withheld at the source. Foreign researchers and key employers may qualify for a gross tax of 25% on their salary instead of paying regular income tax. They are still liable for 9% social security contributions.

Denmark's main indirect tax in the value-added tax (VAT) first introduced in March 1967 with a standard rate of 10%. The current standard rate of 25% was introduced in January 1992. Daily newspapers and a few other goods and services are exempt for the VAT.

Also read article about Denmark from Wikipedia

User Contributions:

1
Fredrick Porter
Sirs:
How does an American (USA) citizen retire to Danemark and avoid paying Danish income tax on his worldwide income? (Income generated in USA and Germany from rents.) Your answer will be most appreciated.
Fredrick Porter

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