Property Tax in Singapore
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Singapore Acts of Parliament, subsidiary legislation, and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
All property owners in Singapore must pay property tax — an annual tax based on the Annual Value (AV) of the property:
- Owner-occupied residential: Progressive rates from 0% (first $8,000 of AV) to 32% (above $140,000 AV).
- Non-owner-occupied residential: Progressive rates from 12% to 36%.
- Commercial/industrial: Flat rate of 10% of AV.
- Annual Value: The estimated annual rent the property would fetch if it were rented out, as determined by IRAS.
- Payment: Due by 31 January each year. GIRO instalment plans are available.
When does it apply?
- You own any property in Singapore — HDB flat, condo, landed house, commercial property, or land.
- Even if you live in the property, you must pay property tax (at the lower owner-occupied rate).
What to Do If You Disagree with Your IRAS Property Tax Annual Value Assessment in Singapore
- Apply for the owner-occupier tax rate if you live in the property — this is not automatic; you must apply via IRAS.
- If you disagree with the AV, you can object within 30 days of receiving the notice. Provide evidence such as comparable rental transactions.
- Set up GIRO payments to spread the cost over 12 monthly instalments (interest-free).
What should you NOT do?
- Don't ignore property tax bills — IRAS can impose a 5% penalty for late payment, and ultimately attach the property.
- Don't forget to update your owner-occupier status — if you move out and rent the property, you must inform IRAS or you'll be taxed at the non-owner rate retroactively.
- Don't assume HDB flats are exempt — all property owners pay property tax, though HDB flats typically have lower AVs.
Common Questions
When is Singapore property tax due?
Property tax is an annual tax based on the Annual Value of your property, due by 31 January each year. GIRO instalment plans are available to spread payments over 12 months interest-free. IRAS can impose a 5% penalty for late payment and ultimately attach the property.
What is the Annual Value for a Singapore property?
The Annual Value is the estimated annual rent the property would fetch if it were rented out, as determined by IRAS. Owner-occupied residential rates are progressive from 0% on the first S$8,000 of AV to 32% above S$140,000. Non-owner-occupied residential rates range from 12% to 36%, and commercial or industrial property is a flat 10%.
Can I appeal my Singapore Annual Value assessment?
Yes. You can object to the Annual Value within 30 days of receiving the notice, with evidence such as comparable rental transactions. If you live in the property, apply for the owner-occupier tax rate — this is not automatic. If you move out and rent the property, inform IRAS or you will be taxed at the non-owner rate retroactively.
When does it apply — property tax?
You own any property in Singapore — HDB flat, condo, landed house, commercial property, or land.Even if you live in the property, you must pay property tax (at the lower owner-occupied rate).
What should I do if IRAS has set an Annual Value for my Singapore property that I believe is too high?
Apply for the owner-occupier tax rate if you live in the property — this is not automatic; you must apply via IRAS.If you disagree with the AV, you can object within 30 days of receiving the notice. Provide evidence such as comparable rental transactions.Set up GIRO payments to spread the cost over 12 monthly instalments (interest-free).
What should you NOT do — property tax?
Don't ignore property tax bills — IRAS can impose a 5% penalty for late payment, and ultimately attach the property.Don't forget to update your owner-occupier status — if you move out and rent the property, you must inform IRAS or you'll be taxed at the non-owner rate retroactively.Don't assume HDB flats are exempt — all property owners pay property tax, though HDB flats typically have lower AVs.