IRD is making a few changes to the way customers can make payments to them.

1.    Limited payment services at Westpac

From 1 October 2014, customers will no longer be able to make cheque payments or drop off returns and forms at Westpac. Customers can still make cash and EFTPOS payments at Westpac or use online banking, credit/debit cards and international money transfers or post cheques to IRD. http://www.ird.govt.nz/makepayment/makepayment-index.html?&id=homepage

2.    Cheques must be received on time

Cheque payments posted to Inland Revenue must arrive on or before the due date to avoid late payment penalties and interest. Customers posting cheques on the due date may incur a late payment penalty (from 1 October 2014).

3.    Electronic refunds are faster

IRD is urging customers who receive refunds to provide them with their bank account information. This will ensure that once IRD has processed the refund, customers will receive it in two working days instead of the 10 days where a payment is made by cheque.  Please contact IRD directly if you would like   to set this up.

If you prefer to send a cheque to IRD, Please ensure you post it early to avoid late payment penalties and interest.