Exclusive to A.M. Costa Rica

Nov. 1 was the deadline for everyone doing business in Costa Rica to give and accept electronic invoices. Much to the chagrin of Ticos and expats alike, this includes the renting of rooms, homes, villas, and any other type of temporary lodging for vacationers.

It does not matter if Airbnb, Vacation Rental by Owner, Booking.com, HomeAway or another firm provided the service to the customer. Costa Rica still wants the sale input into its system.

Electronic invoicing is all about better control over taking in sales taxes and improving income tax collection. Many people renting to tourists or those here in transit believe in tax avoidance and even outright evasion. [Read more…]