Tax Refund Online Inquiry System: How to Use

Every May, many of us OFWs in Taiwan line up our documents, file our annual income tax, and hope for a refund. The good news? Taiwan’s government has made it easier to check the status of your refund through its Tax Refund Online Inquiry System.

Whether you’re still in Taiwan or already back home in the Philippines, these tools can save you the stress of guesswork.

tax refund online inquiry_thumbnail
Screengrab taken from the etax.nat.gov.tw website

Who Can Use the Taiwan Tax Refund Online Inquiry System

  • OFWs and migrant workers who worked in Taiwan and filed an Individual Income Tax return.
  • If your employer withheld more than what you actually owed, the difference is refunded.
  • Refunds are usually processed between July and September for returns filed in May.

Main Online Inquiry Options

Portal What It Does Access Requirements
National Taxation Bureau of Taipei – eTax Portal Check refund status, refund offset, and payment method Citizen Digital Certificate, National Health Insurance (NHI) card + card reader, or ARC/passport with inquiry code
National Taxation Bureau of the Southern Area Same function, with English interface available Same as above
Direct Deposit Refund Schedule Shows refund payout dates if you chose direct deposit None; open to public

What You’ll Need Before Logging In

  1. ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) or passport number used in your tax filing
  2. Date of birth in YYYYMMDD format
  3. Bank account details if you chose direct deposit
  4. Card reader if logging in with Citizen Digital Certificate or NHI card
  5. Inquiry code (can be requested after your first secure login)

Step-by-Step: Filing and Tracking a Tax Refund Online

  1. Go Directly to the Inquiry Page
  1. Prepare Login Details

You’ll need:

  • ARC number or passport number used when you filed
  • Date of birth (YYYYMMDD)
  • Inquiry code (after first secure login) or Citizen Digital Certificate / NHI card + card reader (if applicable)
  1. Log In Securely
  • Use one of the valid login methods (depending on what you have access to).
  • Make sure your browser is updated (older browsers sometimes can’t render the page properly — the portal might show errors if JS is disabled or the browser is too old).
  1. Check Your Refund Status

Once logged in, you should be able to see these:

  • Approved refund amount
  • Method of refund (direct deposit, check, or remittance)
  • Which stage the processing is in (pending, in review, refund issued, etc.)
  1. Confirm Refund Method & Schedule
  • If direct deposit was chosen, it’s fastest. If not, check whether a mailed check or overseas remittance applies.
  • Refunds are typically released between July–September for returns filed in May.
  • If you’re on the “Direct Deposit Schedule” page, you’ll see the dates for payments.
  1. Save the Proof
  • Screenshot or download/print the refund status page.
  • Hold on to any reference numbers or confirmations, in case you need to follow up.
Flow Chart of the Taxation(pdf)

Safe Access Checklist for OFWs

  • Always type the official website manually — avoid links from social media.
  • Look for the https:// and lock icon in your browser.
  • Use your own device and private Wi-Fi, not internet cafés.
  • Log out fully and clear cache after checking.
  • Never share your ARC/passport number or inquiry code.
  • If you get suspicious emails or texts, verify with the taxation bureau hotlines.

Tips for OFWs Checking From Abroad

  • Use the English interface on the Southern Area portal for smoother navigation.
  • If you lost your ARC, use the passport number from your last filing.
  • Keep your filing receipt handy — it contains reference numbers.
  • Call or email the tax bureau; they have English-speaking staff who can guide you.

Contact Information

  • National Taxation Bureau of Taipei: +886-2-2311-3711
  • National Taxation Bureau of the Southern Area: +886-6-222-3111

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Can I still claim my refund if I already left Taiwan?
    Yes. You can file and inquire online as long as you still have your ARC/passport details and Taiwan bank account. If not, the refund check will be mailed to your last Taiwan address.
  2. How long does it take to receive the refund?
    Refunds are generally processed between July and September for returns filed in May. Direct deposit arrives faster than checks.
  3. What if I forgot my inquiry code?
    You’ll need to log in again with your NHI Card or Digital Certificate to reset it.
  4. Can I ask a family member in Taiwan to check my refund?
    Yes, but they will need your ARC/passport number, date of birth, and inquiry code. Always share details only with someone you fully trust.
  5. Are there fees for refunds sent to the Philippines?
    Yes. Overseas remittances may include additional bank fees and longer processing times. Direct deposit to a Taiwan account is still best.

Closing Thoughts

For us OFWs, every refund matters — it’s money we worked hard for. Taiwan’s Tax Refund Online Inquiry System makes the process clearer and safer, especially if we’re already back home. By preparing your login details, using official portals, and knowing the right steps, you can track your refund without stress and avoid scams.

So, if you or your co-workers are waiting on refunds, share this guide. It might just save someone weeks of worry.

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