The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is calling on all businesses and individuals to file their tax returns by April 30, 2025, to comply with the law and avoid significant penalties. This deadline forms part of the GRA’s ongoing ‘Tax and Good Governance Month’ campaign aimed at fostering a culture of tax compliance.
Mr. Victor Akogo, Chief Revenue Officer of the Domestic Tax Revenue Division at GRA, stressed the importance of meeting the deadline during an interview on the Eye on Port program. He outlined the penalties for late filing, including a GH¢500 fee and an additional GH¢10 for each day of delay.
“Filing your tax returns on time is not just a legal obligation; it also prevents unnecessary financial penalties and interest,” Mr. Akogo emphasized. He added that April was chosen for the campaign as it marks the statutory deadline for all individuals and entities that have earned income to declare their earnings.
Benefits of Filing Taxes
Mr. Akogo highlighted the advantages of timely and accurate tax filing, including access to personal reliefs such as marriage relief and child education reliefs. “Failing to file on time means missing out on these benefits,” he warned, urging taxpayers to fulfill their constitutional duty under Article 41J of the 1992 Constitution to declare income honestly and pay taxes due.
The GRA has made tax filing more accessible through its online self-service platform, www.taxpayerportal.com. This system allows taxpayers to file their returns from the comfort of their homes or offices. “Whether your income is from employment, business, or investment, you can now file your returns online with just a click,” Mr. Akogo said.
He also reassured taxpayers who may have overpaid their taxes, noting that refunds are processed within 90 days after a proper assessment, provided they file their returns.
Tackling Challenges and Enforcement
One of the challenges identified by GRA is the public’s misunderstanding of filing deadlines, especially when they fall on weekends or holidays. Mr. Akogo advised taxpayers to plan ahead and submit their returns before these dates to avoid complications.
The GRA is also intensifying efforts to monitor online businesses through its e-commerce department. “Businesses operating online must register, file returns, and pay taxes. Failure to do so will result in strict enforcement actions,” he warned.
For those with unfiled taxes from previous years, the Special Voluntary Disclosure Programme offers an opportunity to regularize their status and potentially waive penalties. “We encourage taxpayers to take advantage of this program to settle past issues and avoid further complications,” Mr. Akogo added.
Building a Better Ghana
The GRA is conducting a series of nationwide activities as part of the Tax and Good Governance Month. These include tax clinics, stakeholder engagements, webinars, and educational campaigns at malls, regional offices, and public spaces. These initiatives aim to educate taxpayers about their obligations and provide assistance with filing.
“Taxes are the lifeblood of the nation,” Mr. Akogo concluded. “By filing your tax returns honestly and on time, you contribute to building a better Ghana for all.”
The GRA’s proactive approach seeks to foster a sense of responsibility among taxpayers while ensuring that tax compliance becomes a cornerstone of national development.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
