What you’ll learn in this article:

– Why the tax office may contact you even if you’re not the “taxpayer”
– The difference between a request for explanation and other actions
– How to respond properly and on time
– What happens if you ignore it
– When you should ask for legal help

What Is a “Request for Explanation” by the Tax Office?

The Czech tax authority is allowed to contact any person who might help clarify the facts of a particular tax case. You don’t need to be a registered taxpayer. You might be:

• a former employee of a company,

• a business partner’s family member,

• a witness to a transaction,

• or simply someone who might know something.

This type of letter is called a request for explanation under Section 57 of the Tax Code (Act No. 280/2009 Coll.). It’s usually delivered by post or to your data mailbox.

What If You Don’t Respond?

Failing to respond is considered a procedural violation. The tax office can fine you up to CZK 500,000, depending on the severity. But that’s not even the worst part.

If they don’t get a response, they may draw conclusions based on incomplete or one-sided information — which can work against you. In a tax audit, that could mean extra tax, suspicion of fraud, or damage to your credibility.

Real Case Example

Marie received a letter about her ex-boyfriend, a businessman she had lived with years earlier. She ignored it, thinking it had nothing to do with her. As a result, the tax office later labeled her as a person suspected of aiding in tax evasion — even though a simple explanation could have avoided all that.

Recommendation from a Lawyer

If you receive a letter asking for an explanation, take it seriously — even if it looks unrelated. It has legal consequences, and ignoring it may cause trouble you never saw coming.

In many cases, a short, truthful but well-phrased reply can protect your rights. Getting legal help is not overkill — it’s a smart, preventative move. And in most cases, I can handle it fast and for a fixed price.