Foreign Experience in Tax Consulting

Publication date/update: 23.06.2024

Tax consulting abroad encompasses a range of advisory services within the framework of each country's tax legislation. This practice is vital for both the state and business owners. European and American experiences often serve as a basis for developing corresponding laws in Russia. This article delves into the tax consulting practices in some developed countries.

Germany is known for its high taxes and progressive tax scales. A special law, "On Tax Consulting," has been developed to regulate this activity comprehensively. This law is crucial for preventing fraudulent practices, ensuring that only licensed and educated tax consultants provide these services.

Typically, a tax consultant in Germany helps clients balance economic benefits with minimized tax risks. Their roles include:

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Ireland is considered one of the most liberal countries for professional communities, including tax consulting. No special license or membership in a professional association is required to offer tax consulting services; a degree in accounting or law suffices. Available tools for local consultants include:

Consultations usually happen electronically, making the process swift and accessible. Business owners may also opt for face-to-face meetings or cooperation agreements.

Austria's law "On Professional Activities Related to Economic Management" regulates consulting services, allowing outsourcing in the following areas:

Overall, tax base optimization is not customary in Austria; therefore, consulting focuses on addressing economic planning tasks.

Consultants in Austria must meet strict criteria

In the UK, tax consulting is not tightly regulated. Lawyers, accountants, and financiers can provide these services, often opting for voluntary insurance to cover client losses.

In France, only qualified tax lawyers or accountants can offer consulting, primarily to small firms. Consultants do not represent clients in court, and a self-regulating organization oversees their activities.

Tax consultants can join one of four self-regulating organizations in the Netherlands, which set professional standards, ethical codes, and disciplinary boards. Consultations focus strictly on tax control issues.

Countries like Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia form the Visegrad Group for tax consulting, characterized by:

The US tax system is complex, with harsh penalties for tax crimes, including imprisonment. Key points include:

Due to the complexity, many individuals and small businesses rely on tax consultants, who are usually lawyers or accountants.

In Canada, the three-tier tax system includes federal, provincial, and municipal levels, with prevalent direct taxes. Consultants often hold economic degrees and provide long-term advisory services.