Acting TRA Shinyanga Regional Manager Josephat Mwaipaja addresses reporters at his office today, September 17, 2024, on the third phase of income tax submissions and payments. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) in the Shinyanga region has on 17th September 2024 urged all taxpayers to settle their tax obligations, including any arrears, by September 30, 2024, to avoid incurring interest penalties.
The call was made today, September 17, 2024, by Acting TRA Regional Manager Josephat Mwaipaja during a press briefing at his office concerning the third phase of the 2024/2025 income tax submissions and payments.
"September is a crucial month for tax collections, as it marks the deadline for the third tax phase of this fiscal year. This is when many taxes are due. Those who delay payment will incur interest from October onwards. I urge all business owners to ensure they fulfill their tax responsibilities for the third phase and clear any outstanding arrears before September 30," Mwaipaja stated.
Mwaipaja also advised businesses to maintain accurate records to ensure correct tax assessments and minimize disputes over tax evaluations.
"We continue to remind taxpayers to issue EFD receipts when selling goods or services, and buyers should always request receipts matching the amount paid," he added.
TRA Shinyanga has exceeded its tax collection goals, achieving 124% of its target for the 2023/2024 fiscal year. Mwaipaja highlighted the success of door-to-door campaigns, which have significantly benefited government revenue collection. These initiatives have fostered closer relationships with taxpayers, provided valuable insights into their businesses, and delivered targeted tax education and services.
As well, TRA has designated Thursdays to listen to taxpayers' grievances, complaints, and suggestions. Contact numbers for TRA Shinyanga are 0677050546, 0677050545, and 0677050544.
Taxes are mandatory contributions required by law from individuals, institutions, or companies, regardless of receiving equivalent goods or services. They enable the government to fund essential services such as schools, hospitals, economic services, electricity, roads, security, and administrative services.
Tax assessment involves determining the amount of tax owed based on the taxpayer's records, with payments divided into four phases: March, June, September, and December.
According to "The United Republic of Tanzania, Volume I, Revenue Estimates for the Year from 1st July 2022 to 30th June 2023," as submitted to the National Assembly, Shinyanga's revenue collection has significantly increased.
The actual revenue for 2020/2021 was Sh23.2 billion, rising to Sh26 billion in the approved estimates for 2021/2022. For the fiscal year 2022/2023, estimates have soared to Sh31.3 billion, reflecting a notable improvement in the region's financial performance
