The Minister of Economy, Alícia Romero, has opened the door for the Catalan Tax Agency to take on some management elements of the income tax in 2027, although she has ruled out taxpayers stopping payment of the tax to the AEAT in the short term.
The Catalan Minister of Economy, Alícia Romero, clarified this Thursday the doubts regarding the timeline for the future Catalan Treasury: in 2027, citizens will continue to pay income tax to the Spanish Tax Agency (AEAT). However, she has opened the door for the Agència Tributària de Catalunya (ATC) to gain some "management elements" of the income tax starting next year.
In a press conference to review the ATC's participation in the latest income tax campaign, Romero was clear: "In 2027 we will not manage the income tax. People will continue to pay income tax to the AEAT." But she specified that competencies can be gradually assumed, always in agreement with the State.
"Can we start taking on some management elements of the income tax? Perhaps yes, but always in agreement with the AEAT," the minister stated.
A cautious advance with institutional loyalty
Romero did not specify which specific tasks the ATC could take on in the upcoming income tax campaign, beyond collaborating in taxpayer assistance. "We have spoken with the AEAT and with the State Treasury secretary, and we need to gradually gain management spaces. Things can be done," she explained. The minister hopes that each year they will "gain" competencies, but without rushing.
The Minister of Economy recalled that the ATC currently manages around 6.5 billion euros in own and ceded taxes, and that income tax is a mass tax that requires a solid structure. "We must be serious on such a delicate issue," she emphasised.
When asked when the ATC would be ready to take on the full management of the income tax, Romero acknowledged that it is a question that "no one dares to answer." For now, the goal is for the agency to continue growing and advancing in collaboration with the AEAT, with "institutional loyalty."
More staff and new steps in tax cession
The ATC currently has around 900 employees. A few days ago, two processes were closed to incorporate 40 positions, although the net gain will be lower due to interested internal staff seeking promotion. Additionally, positions for 25 inspectors will soon be announced. A reinforcement that, according to Romero, is necessary to take on more responsibilities.
An example of progress is the registration tax, which the ATC already manages jointly with the AEAT as it can access the tax platform and conduct checks. "We are building a relationship of trust with the Tax Agency," the minister highlighted, stressing the importance of maintaining a good relationship with the Spanish government.
For now, the cession of the income tax has no set date, but the path towards a more autonomous Catalan Treasury is advancing step by step. For taxpayers, however, the income tax declaration will continue to be submitted to the AEAT for several more years.
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