Ensuring Compliance: Updating SST Tax Rates in Your Xero Account

As businesses evolve, so do tax regulations. In Malaysia, the government’s recent announcement of an increase in the Sales and Service Tax (SST) from 6% to 8% effective March 1st, 2024, requires businesses to adapt swiftly to ensure compliance. For those using Xero, our team at CALTRiX is here to guide you through the seamless process of updating your tax rates within the platform.

1: Accessing Tax Rates

To begin, log in to your Xero account and navigate to the Accounting section. Under the Advanced settings, locate the ‘Tax Rates’ option.

Screenshot of an advanced accounting settings page showcasing features like SST tax rate in your Xero account, chart of accounts, and financial settings. A handy sidebar menu offers seamless navigation through these options.

2: Creating a New Tax Rate

Once in the Tax Rates section, you’ll find the current tax rate listing, including the existing 6% rate. We recommend creating a new tax rate specifically for the updated SST rate of 8%. Simply click on ‘New Tax Rate,’ insert the tax display name as “SST 8%,” and save the changes.

Screenshot of tax software displaying an "Add New Tax Rate" dialog box, featuring fields for tax name, components, and total rate to streamline managing your SST Tax Rate in your Xero Account. Options to save or cancel are conveniently located at the bottom.

3: Updating Product & Services Tax Rate

Proceed to the Business tab and select Product & Services. Here, you can edit individual items to reflect the new 8% tax rate. Simply click on the item requiring an update, change the tax rate from 6% to the newly created 8%, and save your changes. This ensures all future transactions for the specific item will automatically apply the correct tax rate.

A screenshot of an accounting software interface reveals a dropdown menu under "Business," with "Products and services" highlighted, seamlessly integrating SST Tax Rate management in your Xero account.
Screenshot of a software interface illustrating tax settings with options like the SST Tax Rate in Your Xero Account set at 6% and Tax on Consulting. Fields for purchase and sales details are also visible, providing a comprehensive view of your financial configurations.

4: Updating Chart of Accounts Tax Rate

Navigate back to the Accounting section and select Chart of Accounts. Locate the ‘Sales’ account and adjust the tax rate to the newly created 8% rate. Once updated, all invoices associated with the ‘Sales’ account will automatically apply the correct tax rate, streamlining your financial processes.

In your software interface under "Accounting," you'll find options like "Bank accounts," "Reports," and the highlighted "Chart of accounts." Easily manage SST Tax Rate in Your Xero Account alongside these essential financial tools.
The Edit Account Details window in your Xero account showcases various tax options, including the SST tax rate. The dropdown menu presents several tax rates, while sections for Profit & Loss and Balance Sheet are conveniently displayed on the right.

5: Generating SST Tax Reports

Finally, ensure compliance by generating SST tax reports. Head to the Reports section and search for ‘Sales Tax Report.’ Filter the date range to generate the Tax Summary report and click on the ‘Sales Tax Audit Report’ tab for detailed insights into each invoice and associated tax. Export this report for support documentation before submitting the SST.

Screenshot of a software interface titled "Accounting." A dropdown menu displays options like "Bank accounts" and "Reports," featuring sub-options such as "Advanced" and "Aged Receivables Summary." Easily manage the SST Tax Rate in your Xero account with these intuitive tools.
Screenshot of a sales tax report dashboard with a date filter and update button. The report period is set from January 1, 2024, to February 29, 2024, for Demo Company (Global), showcasing the SST Tax Rate in your Xero account.

Adapting to regulatory changes is crucial for business continuity and compliance. By following these simple steps, you can seamlessly update your SST tax rates within Xero, ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance with Malaysian tax regulations. Should you encounter any challenges during the process, our dedicated support team at CALTRiX is here to assist you every step of the way.

 

Stay compliant, stay efficient with CALTRiX.

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author

Alfred Ang

Alfred has led the company in helping over 500 SMEs successfully transition to digital platforms. With expertise in cloud accounting software implementation and other tech stacks. Alfred empowers businesses to access real-time, accurate financial data for informed decision-making. As a Chartered Accountant (CGMA, ACMA, and MIA member), he is driven by the mission to streamline traditional accounting processes. Alfred’s accomplishments include winning the Xero Award for Medium Accounting Partner of the Year in 2024.