Tax Glossary
A-Z glossary of Philippine tax terms and definitions. Learn the meaning of tax-related terms in plain language.
Updated June 12, 2026
Understand Philippine tax terminology with our tax glossary. From 'Adjusted Gross Income' to 'Zero-Rated Sales,' we define and explain hundreds of tax-related terms in clear, plain language.
Each glossary entry includes the official definition, explanation in everyday terms, examples, and links to related calculators, forms, and guides. Whether you're reading a BIR regulation or preparing your tax return, use the glossary to clarify any unfamiliar terms.
A
4 termsB
21 terms- BIR Form 0605
- BIR Form 1601-C
- BIR Form 1601-EQ
- BIR Form 1604-C
- BIR Form 1604-E
- BIR Form 1700
- BIR Form 1701
- BIR Form 1701A
- BIR Form 1701Q
- BIR Form 1702-RT
- BIR Form 1706
- BIR Form 2000
- BIR Form 2303
- BIR Form 2307
- BIR Form 2316
- BIR Form 2550Q
- BIR Form 2551Q
- BIR Ruling and Tax Guidance
- Books of Accounts
- Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
- Business Income and Taxable Profit
C
7 terms- Capital Asset Definition and Tax Treatment
- CMEPA Law (RA 12214)
- Compensation Income - Definition and Tax Treatment
- Compromise Penalty in Philippine Tax
- Corporate Income Tax (CIT) Rates and Filing
- CREATE Law (RA 11534) - Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises
- Creditable Withholding Tax and EWT
D
4 termsE
3 termsF
6 termsG
2 termsI
4 termsL
2 termsM
3 termsN
6 termsO
5 termsP
8 termsR
7 termsS
6 termsT
6 termsV
6 termsW
1 termZ
2 termsCommon questions
What does TIN mean?
TIN stands for Tax Identification Number, the unique number the BIR assigns to every registered taxpayer. You need a TIN to work, run a business, file returns, and transact with the BIR. Each person may legally hold only one TIN.
What is the difference between VAT and percentage tax?
VAT is a 12% tax on sales charged by businesses earning over ₱3,000,000 a year, which can be passed on to customers. Percentage tax is a 3% tax on gross receipts for non-VAT businesses below that threshold.
What is withholding tax?
Withholding tax is income tax collected at source, deducted by the payer (such as an employer) and remitted to the BIR on your behalf. It is credited against your final tax liability when you file your return.
Explore related sections
- Tax Types
Learn about different types of taxes in the Philippines. Guides covering income tax, VAT, property tax, and more.
- Tax Guides
In-depth guides on Philippine taxes. Learn about tax laws, strategies, planning, and best practices for individuals and businesses.
- Tax Calculators
Calculate your taxes accurately with our free BIR-compliant tax calculators. Updated for 2026 tax regulations and easy to use for all taxpayers.
