Greek Tax Authority AADE Enables Immediate Release of Seized Bank Accounts

The Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) in Greece has introduced a procedure that allows taxpayers to have bank accounts seized for tax debts released instantly. The unblocking can be requested once the debtor has paid at least 25 % of the outstanding tax liability, including interest and penalties, and the remaining amount is under a structured repayment plan or a payment‑suspension order. All other overdue public‑revenue debts must also be settled before the request is approved.

Applications are submitted electronically through the myAADE portal under the “My Requests” section. A single release decision is granted per taxpayer, and the account is freed immediately via a digital process. The rule was refined by AADE Director Giorgos Pitsilis to both protect public revenues and help individuals and businesses resume normal financial activity. Taxpayers can seek assistance through the AADE Taxpayer Service Center by calling 1521 (free) on weekdays or via the 24‑hour online service.