If you own a home in Italy, you may need to pay IMU, the municipal property tax. This is true even if you live in another country. Missing the dates can lead to extra costs, so it is worth putting them in your calendar now.
The two dates
- 16 June: the first instalment.
- 16 December: the second instalment, which settles the year.
If a date falls on a weekend or a public holiday, the deadline normally moves to the next working day. Check the exact day each year.
Which rules apply to your home
Not every home pays in the same way. A main home is often not taxed, with some exceptions. A second home or a home you rent out is usually taxed. The amount depends on the cadastral value of the property and on the rate set by the comune where it stands. These rates can change from year to year.
So do not assume. Check which case applies to your home, and what the comune has decided for this year.
How people usually pay
Payment is normally made with a form called F24, through a bank, the post office or online banking. Many owners ask a tax professional to calculate the amount and to prepare the form. Ask for the price before you start.
A simple routine
- Put both dates in your calendar, with a reminder a month before.
- Ask your tax adviser or the comune for the amount.
- Keep every payment receipt for your records.
IMU is not the only cost of owning a home. Waste tax and building costs are separate, so ask about them too.