Analysis of Judgment No. 9395 of 2024: Invalidity of Notification of a Tax Enforcement Act

The recent ruling of the Court of Cassation No. 9395 of April 8, 2024, presided over by Judge E. M., provides important clarifications regarding the validity of the notification of tax enforcement acts, particularly in the context of tax assessments. The case brought before the Court has led to a profound reflection on the consequences of the invalidity of notification, establishing some fundamental principles that concern not only taxpayers but also the Tax Administration.

Invalidity of Notification: What Does It Mean?

According to the judgment in question, the invalidity of the notification of a tax enforcement act, as provided by Article 29 of Decree Law No. 78 of 2010, does not imply the non-existence of the act itself. Rather, it results in a preclusion of the act's effectiveness regarding collection. In other words, an act notified invalidly cannot be used to proceed with the collection of amounts due, but it remains valid and can be renewed through a new notification.

The Practical Consequences of the Judgment

The practical consequences of this judgment are multiple and can be summarized in the following points:

  • The invalid notification does not annul the existence of the act.
  • It is possible to proceed with a renewal of the notification, thus remedying the defect.
  • The remedy is possible if the taxpayer demonstrates having had full knowledge of the act.
  • This knowledge must occur within the expiration period for the exercise of power by the Tax Administration.
Tax "enforcement" act - Invalidity of notification - Consequences - Ineffectiveness solely for collection purposes - Renewal of notification and remedy of the defect - Admissibility - Limits. The invalidity of the notification of a "tax enforcement" act (pursuant to Article 29 of Decree Law No. 78 of 2010, converted with amendments by Law No. 122 of 2010) solely determines a preclusion of the act's effectiveness for collection purposes, but does not exclude its existence, nor the possibility of a renewal of the notification, provided the remedy of the defect is in accordance with general rules, if it is unequivocally established that the taxpayer had full knowledge of the act within the expiration period for the exercise of power by the Tax Administration.

Conclusions

In conclusion, ruling No. 9395 of 2024 represents an important step forward in the protection of taxpayers' rights, clearly outlining the consequences of the invalidity of the notification of tax enforcement acts. This judgment not only emphasizes the importance of proper notification but also opens up new possibilities for remedy, thus ensuring greater protection for taxpayers in the context of tax disputes. It is essential that both legal professionals and taxpayers are aware of these provisions to better protect their rights.

Bianucci Law Firm