News Room

As the deadline for the submission of tax returns approaches, we will continue to highlight relevant terms that we hope you will find useful. Today’s term –Taxpayers’ Charter.

A taxpayers’ charter outlines the roles and responsibilities of both the department responsible for collecting tax revenue and, the taxpayer. The charter usually reads like a mission statement outlining what a taxpayer can expect and what is expected of him/her.

What does this mean for you?

Once you are familiar with the taxpayers’ charter, it means that you are aware of what your rights and responsibilities are regarding the filing and collection of your taxes. You are able to dialogue with the tax collecting authority from an informed position if you have any issues or queries about the process. For example, the principle of confidentiality is a feature of most, if not all, taxpayers’ charters. Therefore, the tax collecting authority is obligated to keep your tax information confidential unless required to do otherwise by law.

So, get familiar with your taxpayers’ charter and be aware of your rights and responsibilities regarding your taxes. Remember, your income must be declared and it is important to file your income tax returns and make your claim for allowances and deductions. Remember March 31st is the deadline for the submission of your tax returns.