Understanding SaaS Sales Tax in Honduras: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

In Honduras, the adoption of a Value Added Tax (VAT) system in 2004 significantly reshaped the taxation landscape for businesses, including those offering Software as a Service (SaaS). As a business owner in the SaaS realm, staying abreast of the nuances surrounding sales tax is crucial for ensuring compliance and avoiding potential liabilities. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of SaaS sales tax in Honduras, empowering you to navigate the regulatory environment with confidence.

The standard VAT rate in Honduras stands at 15%. This applies to the majority of goods and services, including SaaS offerings. While certain categories like educational services provided online may enjoy exemption, digital goods and services typically fall under the standard rate. It’s crucial to note that there is currently no reduced VAT rate in Honduras for specific categories.

Compliance with SaaS sales tax regulations in Honduras entails adhering to specific requirements. Businesses must diligently file their VAT returns monthly, ensuring they are submitted by the 10th of the following month. Furthermore, meticulous record-keeping is essential, with invoices, contracts, and any documentation related to taxable supplies diligently maintained for at least five years.

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Honduras

Honduras adopted a VAT system in 2004 to enhance revenue collection and support economic growth.

Official government link: Servicio de Administración de Rentas

15.00%

E-products and services VAT/Sales tax rate

Reduced tax rate product categories

The standard VAT rate is 15%, and digital goods and services do not have a specific reduced tax rate.

Exempted product categories

Educational services provided online may be exempt from VAT, but other digital goods and services typically do not have exemptions.

Reverse charge mechanism for B2B sales

No

Tax ID validation required

Yes

When do you have to register

A non-resident company must register for VAT before providing any taxable goods or services in Honduras.

Online registration possible

No

Local representative needed

Not mandatory

Registration procedure

Entities or individuals that are subject to the tax must register using Form SAR-410 and submit it by paper. It must contain the complete name of taxable person, company address, date of incoporation, company registration number, legal representative tax ID, shareholders’ name and tax ID, company’s main business activity, expected operating start date, company’s year-end closing date, tax obligations and withholding agents, registry on a special scheme, tax exemptions and its current resolution.

List of digital and electronic services liable for tax

Digital advertising services
E-books and online educational materials (noted as potentially exempt)
Streaming services for music and video
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Online gaming services

Penalties

Fines: Businesses may face monetary fines for failing to file VAT returns on time or for inaccuracies in their filings.
Interest Charges: Late payments can accrue interest, increasing the total amount owed.
Suspension of VAT Registration: Repeated non-compliance can lead to the suspension of a business’s VAT registration, making it impossible to charge or reclaim VAT until the outstanding issues are resolved.
Legal Action: In severe cases, legal action may be taken against the taxpayer

Registration threshold

HNL 250.000 USD 10.500

Filing interval

Monthly

Filing deadline

Musts be filed by the 10th of the following month

E-invoicing requirements

Not specified

Record keeping

Records must be kept for at least 5 years, including invoices, contracts, and documentation related to taxable supplies.

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SaaS Sales Tax Compliance in Honduras: E-Invoicing and Expert Guidance

Navigating the intricacies of SaaS sales tax compliance in Honduras can be simplified through the adoption of effective strategies. One prominent recommendation is embracing e-invoicing, a streamlined approach that can help minimize errors and enhance efficiency. Furthermore, seeking guidance from experienced tax professionals can prove invaluable. They possess the expertise to navigate the regulatory landscape and offer tailored advice specific to your business needs.

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The Importance of Customer Location

Understanding the location of your customers plays a critical role in determining your SaaS sales tax obligations. Sales made to customers within Honduras are subject to the standard 15% VAT rate. However, if your customers reside outside of Honduras, the applicability of VAT becomes contingent upon factors such as the customer’s country of residence and the nature of the service provided.

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