Want CNET to notify you of price drops and the latest stories?
No, thank you Accept
X
Apple's Mixed Reality HeadsetRemote Working in ParadiseBest Mineral SunscreensBest Solar CompaniesSmart Plugs on SaleMeal Subscription vs. TakeoutBest Satellite Internet ProvidersCurrent Mortgage Rates

Apple forks over first billion in $15B Irish tax fine

Both Apple and Ireland are appealing the EU fine.

Carrie.jpg
Carrie.jpg
Carrie Mihalcik Senior Editor / News
Carrie is a Senior Editor at CNET focused on breaking and trending news. She's been reporting and editing for more than a decade, including at the National Journal and CurrentTV.
Expertise Breaking News, Technology Credentials
  • Carrie has lived on both coasts and can definitively say that Chesapeake Bay blue crabs are the best.
See full bio
Carrie Mihalcik
Logo light box of the Apple store located on the Huaihai
Zhang Peng

Apparently it's time for Apple to pay up.

Apple has deposited €1.5 billion, or about $1 billion, into an escrow account set up to hold €13 billion in disputed Irish taxes, EU Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said on Friday.

In 2016, the EU ordered the iPhone maker to pay almost $15 billion in back taxes to Ireland. The EU believes Ireland hasn't been collecting enough taxes and instead has been giving companies like Apple too big of a break on its already low 12.5 percent tax rate.

Both Apple and Ireland are appealing the EU fine. Apple has also reportedly moved its cash to the small island of Jersey -- a well-known tax haven -- off the south coast of England to avoid further Irish taxation.

Apple is expected to deposit the full fine into the account by September. The money will be held there until a final judgement is reached.

Apple didn't respond to a request for comment.