BIR clarifies ONETT, eCAR rules for property transfers

The Bureau of Internal Revenue has issued consolidated guidelines to help taxpayers navigate the tax requirements and documentation needed to transfer real estate, shares of stock, donated assets, and inherited properties.

Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 75-2026 provides frequently asked questions on the application, processing, and issuance of the One-Time Transaction Computation Sheet and the Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration.

The guidelines aim to reduce uncertainty, prevent inconsistent requirements among processing offices, and shorten delays that can hold up property registrations and other ownership transfers.

Clearer procedures are important to taxpayers because incomplete documents, incorrect tax payments, or applications filed with the wrong office can delay transactions and increase compliance costs.

The circular consolidates the policies and procedures governing one-time transactions, including the applicable taxes, filing and payment processes, documentary requirements, processing offices, and prescribed processing timelines.

It also addresses common concerns involving the transfer of real properties, shares of stock, donations, and estates.

The BIR said the circular clarifies the requirements for the issuance, replacement, and validity of eCARs.

It also explains how relevant tax rules apply to different transaction scenarios.

An eCAR is required for taxpayers transferring ownership of real or personal properties arising from a sale, donation, or estate settlement.

The certificate allows the appropriate government office to proceed with the registration of the transferred property after the required taxes and documents have been reviewed.

The OCS, meanwhile, shows the taxes and other amounts assessed by the BIR for a covered one-time transaction.

The bureau also operates the Electronic One-Time Transaction System for transactions involving the sale or donation of real and personal properties.

The BIR said RMC No. 75-2026 is intended to give taxpayers clearer guidance, promote uniform implementation of existing policies, and support faster and more efficient processing of OCS and eCAR applications.

For the full text of RMC No. 75-2026, visit the BIR website or access the Circular through this link: https://tinyurl.com/RMC75-2026.