Request for Explanation – What It Means and How to Respond
Received a “request for explanation” from the tax office and not sure what to do? It might look like a routine request for information—but this letter can quietly mark the beginning of formal tax proceedings. And how you respond may shape the entire course of your case. Staying silent or replying vaguely can quickly backfire.
This article is part of the main guide to tax proceedings – see more here, where you’ll find a clear overview of each stage, practical tips and legal advice written in plain language.
People often search for things like “letter from tax office what to do,” “do I have to respond to request for explanation,” “how long do I have to reply,” or “what if I ignore the tax authority.” But they rarely find clear answers. This article explains why this kind of request matters, what options you have, what to include in your response—and when it’s smarter to bring in a lawyer.
What is a request for explanation?
It’s one of the most common tools used by the Czech tax office under Section 93 of the Tax Code. The office asks you to explain certain facts—typically inconsistencies in your tax return, account activity, expenses, or income. These requests may come via letter, data mailbox, email, or even a phone call followed by written confirmation.
Key points to know:
A request can mark the start of formal proceedings.
It usually comes with a short deadline (often 15 days).
It’s often a prelude to a full audit or tax reassessment.
Legally, this is a moment to take seriously. Your reply should be accurate, well-reasoned, and ideally reviewed by a professional—especially if you’re not sure what exactly the tax authority is looking for.
What happens if you don’t respond?
Not replying means losing your chance to clarify things early. The authority may move directly to audit or issue a reassessment without further warning. It may also use so-called “tools”—meaning it estimates your tax liability without your input. And that usually hurts.
Many clients ignore the request, thinking it’s “not official,” “not signed,” or “just a suggestion.” But its vague tone is often deliberate. The office doesn’t always reveal what it’s really looking for—but your response may decide what happens next.
How to respond properly?
Always start by identifying:
What exactly the office is asking,
What evidence it may already have,
What you are legally required to disclose—and what you’re not.
Sometimes a short, factual reply with attachments is enough. In more complex cases, it’s better to prepare a detailed explanation supported by legal reasoning. A lawyer can help you say exactly what’s needed—no more, no less—and avoid any unintended admissions.
Got a request for explanation and unsure what it really means? I can review it, explain the situation, help draft your reply or handle communication on your behalf. Don’t underestimate this stage—it often determines what happens next. Consultations from CZK 1,500 excl. VAT, with a clear price agreed in advance. Let me help you avoid costly mistakes.
Contact a legal professional – I specialize in tax law.
Learn more here.
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- Naposledy aktualizováno: 17/07/2025
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Request for Explanation – What It Means and How to Respond
Print Received a “request for explanation” from the tax office and not sure what to do? It might look like a routine request for information—but