Why a Certified Professional is Essential for Act 60 Success

Who is the Certified Professional?

Act 60-2019 formally incorporates the private sector into the application and compliance process through the concept of the Certified Professional1. The law is very specific about who can fill this role. A Certified Professional must be either an attorney admitted to the Bar or a certified public accountant (CPA) holding a valid license to practice in Puerto Rico.

This isn't just any consultant. This is a licensed expert who acts as a crucial link between you and the Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DEDC), responsible for verifying information and ensuring every requirement of your unique decree is met.

The Two Critical Functions of Your Certified Professional

The law outlines two primary functions for a Certified Professional, one at the beginning of your journey and one that continues for the life of your decree.

1. The Expedited Path to Your Decree

For applicants who are well-prepared, Act 60 provides an "Expedited Process" for obtaining a decree within 30 days. This accelerated path is only available to those who file their application with a pre-eligibility report prepared by a Certified Professional. By engaging an expert team from the start, you demonstrate that your application is sound, complete, and ready for swift approval, allowing you to begin enjoying your benefits sooner.

2. The Key to Long-Term Compliance

This is the most crucial function. Your tax decree is a contract with the Government of Puerto Rico that requires you to meet specific conditions. To ensure these conditions are met, the law mandates a biennial review process.

The Biennial Review: Every two years, a Compliance Professional must evaluate your operations to confirm you are complying with all the terms of your decree.
The Certificate of Compliance: If you meet the requirements, the professional issues a Certificate of Compliance. The law states this certificate is the only legal document that validates your right to the tax incentive.
The Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to hold a valid Certificate of Compliance will result in the immediate suspension of your decree. If the issues are not resolved, the decree will be revoked.

In short, the Certified Professional is the gatekeeper of your ongoing benefits.

Why This Matters for You

Navigating the nuances of Act 60 is not something to be taken lightly. The role of the Certified Professional is hardwired into the law to ensure stability and transparency for everyone. Partnering with a premier consultancy firm gives you access to a dedicated team of attorneys and tax experts who act as your Certified Professionals.

This provides you with:

Peace of Mind: Knowing that licensed experts are overseeing your compliance and ensuring all reports are filed correctly and on time.
Protection for Your Decree: Your decree is a valuable asset. We help you protect it by proactively managing your obligations.
Efficiency and Expertise: From leveraging the expedited application process to simplifying the biennial compliance review, we make the entire experience seamless.

Your focus should be on growing your business and enjoying your new life in paradise. Let our team handle the complexities of compliance.

Schedule a free consultation with our experts today.