Article 13: Understanding Statutory Payment Due Dates and Penalties in Malaysia
1. Employees Provident Fund (EPF)
The EPF is a mandatory retirement savings scheme for employees. Employers are required to contribute a portion of their employees' salaries to the EPF.
- Due Date: The 15th of the following month.
- Penalty for Late Payment: Late payments incur a dividend equivalent to the prevailing EPF interest rate plus 1% per annum on the outstanding amount.
2. Social Security Organization (SOCSO)
SOCSO provides social security protection for employees against workplace accidents and illnesses.
- Due Date: The 15th of the following month.
- Penalty for Late Payment: A fine of up to RM4,000 or imprisonment for up to 2 years, or both. Late contributions are also subject to interest at a rate of 6% per annum for each day overdue will be charged
3. Employment Insurance System (EIS)
EIS offers temporary financial assistance to employees who lose their jobs.
- Due Date: The 15th of the following month.
- Penalty for Late Payment: Similar to SOCSO, late payments attract a 6% annual interest for each day overdue amount.
4. Monthly Tax Deduction (PCB)
PCB (Potongan Cukai Bulanan) is the income tax deducted from employees' salaries.
- Due Date: The 15th of the following month.
- Penalty for Late Payment: The fine is a minimum of RM 200 and not more than RM 2,000 or 6 months imprisonment or both. A penalty of 10% is imposed on the overdue amount, with an additional 5% if the amount remains unpaid after 60 days.
5. Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) Levy
The HRDF Levy is mandatory for employers in specific sectors to fund employee training and development.
- Due Date: The 15th of the following month.
- Penalty for Late Payment:Fine not exceeding RM20,000 (Ringgit Malaysia) or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two (2) years or both (on conviction). Late payments attract a 10% interest on the outstanding amount.
Consequences of Late Payment
Failing to meet statutory payment deadlines can have serious repercussions for employers, including:
- Financial Penalties: As detailed above, late payments often result in fines, interest, or additional charges.
- Legal Action: Persistent non-compliance may lead to prosecution, fines, or imprisonment for company directors or responsible officers.
- Reputational Damage: Delays in statutory payments can harm an employer’s credibility with employees and authorities.
- Operational Disruptions: Legal disputes and enforcement actions may disrupt business operations
Conclusion
Adhering to statutory payment deadlines is essential for maintaining legal compliance and fostering a positive employer-employee relationship. Employers should prioritize timely payments and implement measures to ensure compliance with Malaysian statutory requirements. For expert assistance, Kindly engage with Alena Consultancy & Services, which specializes in outsourcing payroll and statutory compliance to streamline processes and avoid penalties. We are letting you to focus on what is matter most on your business growth.
Call/Whatsapp: +6018-3755170
Email: hello@alena.com.my
Website: alena.com.my
16 Dec 2024