Finance Act 2010 introduced significant changes to the Capital Acquisitions Tax Act 2003. Revenue's guide explains the changes introduced as they relate to CAT and to probate requirements. The guide also details the new e-filing procedures for CAT and contains FAQs.

The main changes to CAT introduced in Finance Act 2010 are:

• A fixed pay and file date for CAT of 31 October
• Mandatory e-filing of the CAT return (Form IT 38) where beneficiary is claiming reliefs, exemptions etc. other than small gift exemption
• Surcharge for late filing of a CAT return
• Abolishment of secondary accountability and CAT as a charge on property

The guide explains the practical implications of the above changes including guidance on how to register for Revenue Online Service (ROS) and some of the advantages of e-filing.

The guide also confirms that the practice of filing an Inland Revenue Affidavit with Revenue in advance of applying for a Grant of Representation in a deceased person's estate, will be replaced from mid June 2010 with a more efficient and streamlined procedure.

A Guide to Changes to Probate & Capital Acquisitions Tax can be accessed at http://www.revenue.ie/en/practitioner/ebrief/2010/no-232010.html