GRA takes new measures to support taxpayers

Due to the outbreak of the deadly coronavirus (covid-19) worldwide, the management of The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has taken a giant step in its bid to support taxpayers in the country.

In a press release, the authority wishes to inform the general public and its esteemed taxpayers in particular that, the Authority is doing all it can to support government in the fight against the spread of the deadly virus. 

Consequently, the authority has downsized its workforce and is reducing the need for direct contact with taxpayers and among staff during these difficult times.

To that end, the Authority has extended the deadline for the filing of the 2019 annual tax return and the payment of final 2019 tax for two months.

These returns and payments, the release went on, were due by March 31, 2020, adding that it has now been extended to May 31, 2020.

“The authority has extended the deadline for the filing of the first quarter 2020 declaration and the payment of the first quarter installment for two months. These declarations and payments are due by April 15, 2020.  It has now been extended to June 15, 2020.  It has also suspended all field compliance enforcement activities.  However, limited follow-ups on overdue tax arrears will continue”.

The Authority has also suspended all field taxpayer audits.  However, limited desk audits and reviews will continue.

“Taxpayers contacted by GRA’s tax auditors for information and or clarification, are therefore urged to cooperate. Taxpayers wishing to file tax returns/declarations through e-mail can forward such returns/declarations to khaddycamara23@gmail.com and copy chamfafanding@hotmail.com and mamharrceesay@yahoo.com. GRA will introduce drop boxes in all tax offices for taxpayers who choose to file physical tax returns/declarations to do so without having direct contact with staff and complying with the recommended social distancing”, the release further states.

However, it is worth noting again that these are difficult times and thus the slowdown in mobility and economic activity will seriously affect businesses.

“It will at the same time increase the burden on government to provide social services to the general public, especially the most vulnerable groups.  Therefore, GRA is appealing to taxpayers who are able to file and pay their taxes on time, despite the challenges, to do so to help support government at these difficult times.” The released concludes.