A Business Owner’s Guide to Dividend Taxation in Singapore

As a business owner, you may be considering paying dividends to your shareholders as a way to distribute profits and reward their investment in your company. However, navigating the taxation of dividends can be complex and it’s essential to understand the implications before making any decisions. In this guide, we’ll explore what dividends are, how they are taxed, and what you need to know as a business owner.

Understanding Dividends

Dividends are a portion of the profits that a company distributes to its shareholders as a return on their investment. They can be paid out in various forms, including cash or additional shares in the company. For business owners, issuing dividends is a way to share the financial success of the company with its shareholders and incentivise continued investment.

Types of Dividends

When it comes to dividends, there are primarily two types:

1. Cash Dividends: These dividends are typically distributed from a company’s profits and are stated on a per-share basis. For instance, if ABC Corporation declares a $0.30-per-share dividend and you own 400 shares, you’ll receive a total dividend of $120.
2. Stock Dividends: Alternatively, companies may offer shareholders the choice of receiving additional shares instead of cash dividends. Known as “scrip dividends,” these are also quoted on a per-share basis or as a percentage. For example, if ABC Corporation decides to pay a 4% (or 0.04-per-share) dividend, shareholders will receive one extra share for every 25 shares they own.

Taxation of Dividends

Under Singapore’s one-tier corporate tax system, dividends distributed by your company are generally tax-exempt, incentivising investment and fostering shareholder confidence. However, specific dividends may be subject to taxation, including those from co-operatives, foreign-sourced dividends via partnerships, and certain Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) income.

Foreign-Sourced Dividend Taxation

While Singapore adopts a territorial tax system, foreign-sourced dividends may be taxable under certain conditions. Tax exemptions are available upon meeting prescribed criteria, with documentation required to substantiate underlying tax payments.

​​Reporting Dividend for Your Company

As a business owner, it’s important to properly report dividends to the tax authorities. Dividends subject to tax should be declared in the Income Tax Return under the ‘Other Income’ section, unless the company indicates otherwise in the dividend voucher. Failure to report dividends accurately can result in penalties and fines, so it’s crucial to ensure compliance with tax regulations.

Considerations for Dividend Distribution

Dividends can only be distributed from profits, emphasising the importance of prudent financial management and regulatory compliance. Irrevocable declarations and debt creation accompany final dividend payments, highlighting the significance of robust corporate governance practices.

Dividend Tax Implications for Shareholders

As a business owner distributing dividends, it’s crucial to consider the personal tax implications for your shareholders. While dividends from your company are generally tax-exempt at the corporate level under Singapore’s one-tier corporate tax system, shareholders may face personal income tax on received dividends. This taxation is based on individual residency status and progressive tax rates, meaning higher dividend income may incur higher tax liabilities.

Unlike salary payments, dividends are not tax-deductible expenses for your company, impacting overall tax considerations. To address potential double taxation, Singapore has established double taxation avoidance agreements (DTAs) with various countries, reducing tax burdens on foreign-sourced dividends.

Shareholders are responsible for accurately reporting dividend income in their annual tax returns to IRAS, emphasising compliance with tax regulations to avoid penalties. Considering tax implications in your company’s dividend policy can attract investors seeking tax-efficient opportunities and enhance shareholder returns.

Summary

Navigating dividend taxation as a business owner requires diligence, foresight, and a commitment to compliance. By leveraging the insights provided in this tailored guide, you can optimise your company’s dividend strategy, maximise shareholder value, and foster sustainable growth.

Discover how Counto helps small businesses like you save time and money

With an intelligent platform combined with experienced accountants and tax specialists, who are dedicated to helping businesses achieve greater financial efficiency at an affordable price. Experience a smarter way to outsource your accounting with confidence. Speak to us directly on our chatbot, email us at [email protected], or contact us using this form.

Here are some articles you might find helpful:

Filing requirements for Pte Ltd companies 

Do I need to register for GST?

The importance of working capital