How to file & submit income tax in malaysia: a step-by-step e-filing guide

Key takeaways

• Preparing documents early makes income tax e-filling faster and reduces mistakes.
• Understanding the My Tax process helps simplify the income tax declaration.
• Always review your receipts and claims carefully before finalising income tax submission. 
• Keeping proper record ensures you stay compliant with tax requirements in Malaysia

Filling taxes for the first time can feel confusing. You may wonder which form to choose, what documents to prepare or even where to begin on the My Tax portal. If this sound unfamilliar, you are not alone.

For many Malaysians, income tax e-filling can seem complicated simly because the process is unfamilliar. The good news is that once you understand the basic steps and prepare your document early, the process becomes far more manageable. 

This guide will walk you though how to file income tax in Malaysia, from preparing the right documents to completing your income tax submission confidently on the My Tax portal.

Get your documents ready before you start

Before logging into the MyTax portal, it is important to prepare all necessary documents. This step is often overlooked, but it can save you time and prevent unnecessary confusion during your income tax declaration.

Here are some key documents you should gather first:

• EA Form from your employer
• Records of additional income (freelance, rental, or business income)
• Receipts and invoices for tax relief claims
• Takaful or insurance contribution statements
• Medical or education-related receipts
• Donation records to approved organisations

Having these documents ready ensures that your income tax submission process runs smoothly.
More importantly, preparation reduces the risk of mistakes. Entering incorrect amounts or missing eligible tax relief can affect your final tax calculation.

A simple rule to remember is this: do not log in first and panic later. Gather everything you need before starting your income tax e-filing process.
For official guidelines on income tax documentation, you can refer to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN).

Follow the e-filling process step by step

Once your documents are ready, the next step is completing your income tax e filing through the MyTax portal. Breaking the process into smaller steps can make it much easier to understand.

Step 1: Log in to the MyTax Portal

Visit the official MyTax portal and log in using your identification details and password.

Official portal: https://mytax.hasil.gov.my

Step 2: Select the Correct Tax Form

Choosing the correct form is essential for your income tax declaration.

For example:

• Form BE – For individuals with employment income only
• Form B – For individuals with business income

Selecting the right form ensures your income tax submission is processed correctly.

Step 3: Fill in Personal and Income Details

Next, enter the required information, including:

• Personal details
• Employer information
• Annual income from your EA form
• Additional income sources, if applicableBe careful when entering numbers, as small mistakes can affect your tax calculation.

Step 4: Enter Your Tax Relief Information

Malaysia offers various tax relief categories that can help reduce your taxable income.

Common relief claims include:

• Lifestyle expenses
• Medical expenses
• Education fees
• Takaful contributions
• Parental care expenses
  

Including the correct claims is an important part of completing your income tax e-filing accurately.

Step 5: Review the Summary Before Submission

Before completing your income tax submission, the MyTax portal will display a summary of your information.

Take a moment to check:

• Your income amounts
• Tax relief claims
• Final tax payable or refund amount

This final review step helps prevent errors in your income tax declaration.

Double-check your relief claims, receipts and submission

Even after completing the form, your responsibility does not end there.

Before clicking submit, make sure you:

• Review all entered amounts carefully
• Confirm claims are placed under the correct categories
• Verify that supporting documents are available

Accuracy matters in income tax e-filing, and maintaining proper documentation is equally important.

According to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia, taxpayers should keep relevant receipts and supporting documents for at least seven years in case verification is required. Keeping organised records helps you stay prepared if LHDN requires further documentation after your income tax submission.

In other words, filing taxes is not just about submitting the form; it is also about maintaining proper financial records.

File your taxes with confidence

Income tax e-filing does not have to feel overwhelming when you approach it step by step. By preparing your documents early, understanding the basic process, and keeping the right receipts and invoices, you can complete your income tax submission with greater confidence.

While managing taxes is an important part of financial responsibility, protecting your family’s financial future is equally important. Explore Great Eastern Takaful’s protection solutions and speak to a Takaful Advisor today to strengthen your long-term financial planning.