In Spain, transfers via Bizum have long become a familiar way to quickly send money to friends or relatives. Instant transactions using a phone number have simplified life for millions of users. However, recently, concerns have spread among Spaniards: will they now have to report every such transaction to the tax authorities?
These worries were sparked by information about new requirements for financial organizations that will come into force in February 2026. Many feared that routine transfers between private individuals would come under close scrutiny by tax authorities. But now the situation is clear: Spain’s tax office has officially stated that personal transfers via Bizum do not need to be declared.
What will change in 2026
Starting February 2026, banks and other financial institutions will be required to submit monthly reports to the tax office on all transactions carried out through Bizum. However, this only applies to payments related to business or professional activities. For ordinary citizens using Bizum for personal needs, nothing will change.
The new rules clearly specify: if the transfer is made between private individuals, these operations do not require separate reporting. Banks will not share information with the tax office on each transfer between friends or family members. This only applies when Bizum is used for payment of goods or services as part of business activities.
What data will banks collect
Financial institutions will be required to provide the tax authorities with detailed information about business owners and professionals who use Bizum for transactions with clients. The reports will include account holder identification details, merchant numbers, payment terminals, and the total volume of transactions per month.
This will allow the tax authorities to monitor business transactions and ensure correct taxation on income received through Bizum. For individuals who use the service solely for personal transfers, no new obligations will arise.
Personal transfers remain outside regulatory oversight
Official statements emphasize: transfers between private individuals are not subject to the new requirements. Banks will not report every single transaction between friends or relatives to the tax authorities. This means that splitting a café bill or paying back a loan will remain just as simple and quick.
The main aim of these changes is to increase transparency in business transactions and prevent tax evasion among entrepreneurs. For regular Bizum users, nothing changes: personal transfers still do not require reporting.
