PIT Advances
Monthly or Quarterly? What to Choose
If you run a sole proprietorship (JDG) or are a registered business owner, you must regularly pay PIT advances. But whether you'll pay monthly or quarterly depends on several factors. The choice between monthly and quarterly settlements has a direct impact on your cash flow and administrative workload. In 2026, the rules have remained unchanged, but it's important to understand the differences and make the right decision for your business.
Monthly vs Quarterly PIT Advances
The first decision you need to make is whether to settle PIT advances monthly or quarterly. This choice is not arbitrary — it depends on your annual revenue.
Who pays monthly advances?
All businesses with annual revenue exceeding EUR 2,000,000 (approximately 8.5 million PLN in 2026) must pay PIT advances monthly. These are typically medium and larger enterprises.
Who can pay quarterly advances?
Small taxpayers with annual revenue not exceeding EUR 2,000,000 can choose quarterly payment. This includes newly established businesses in their first year of operation.
Payment Deadlines
Knowing the correct payment deadlines is crucial to avoid penalties.
| Payment Type | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Monthly advances | By the 20th of the following month |
| Q1 quarterly advance | By April 20th |
| Q2 quarterly advance | By July 20th |
| Q3 quarterly advance | By October 20th |
| Q4 quarterly advance | By January 20th of next year |
How to Calculate PIT Advances
Calculating advances correctly helps you avoid underpayment and overpayment. The calculation depends on your tax form (KPiR, RKS, ryczałt, etc.).
For KPiR taxpayers
The advance is typically calculated as 0.4 of the tax for the previous month, or if in your first year of operation, an estimate based on projected income.
For ryczałt (flat-rate) taxpayers
Advances are fixed amounts predetermined by tax office based on your estimated income and the percentage rate for your business activity.
Changing Payment Forms
You can change from monthly to quarterly (or vice versa) under certain conditions, but timing is important.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Monthly advances — Advantages
- More frequent contact with tax obligations keeps you organized
- Lower individual payment amounts
- Better alignment with your monthly income
Monthly advances — Disadvantages
- More administrative work (12 payments per year)
- Higher total tax costs due to more frequent recalculation
- More opportunities for errors
Quarterly advances — Advantages
- Less administrative burden (4 payments per year)
- Better cash flow management for seasonal businesses
- Simplified record-keeping
Quarterly advances — Disadvantages
- Larger individual payment amounts
- If income fluctuates significantly, larger adjustments at year-end
- Only available for small taxpayers
Practical Examples
Example: Small business with 1.5 million PLN annual revenue
Situation: Anna runs a consulting business with annual revenue of 1.5 million PLN. She is a small taxpayer and can choose between monthly or quarterly advances.
Monthly option: 12 advance payments per year, average 4,000 PLN each (approximately), with adjustments based on actual income.
Quarterly option: 4 advance payments per year, approximately 12,000-15,000 PLN each, larger amounts but simpler administration.
Recommendation: For Anna with stable monthly income, quarterly advances reduce administrative burden while maintaining reasonable payment amounts.
Common Questions
What happens if I miss a deadline?
Late payment results in penalties and interest (currently 0.3% per day). It's better to pay late than not pay at all, but avoid delays if possible.
Can I pay in installments if I can't afford the full amount?
Yes, you can request a payment plan from the tax office. Contact them before the deadline to negotiate terms.
Do I get a refund if I overpaid in advances?
Yes. Overpaid amounts are refunded in your annual tax settlement or can be carried forward to the next tax year.
Is there a simplified advance for first-year businesses?
Yes. First-year entrepreneurs can apply for simplified advances based on projected income, often lower than standard calculations.
Related Articles
New Tax Limits 2026
Annual income thresholds, VAT limits, CIT rates for entrepreneurs.
KPiR vs Ryczałt
Comparison of accounting methods and tax settlements.