Dhaka West VAT Commissionerate launches online VAT return training and service for businesses
To raise awareness among VAT payers, SMS and video messages are also being sent to mobile phones, explaining how businesses can file their returns online from home
To help businesses learn how to file VAT returns online, the Customs, Excise and VAT Commissionerate, Dhaka (West), has launched VAT training and service booths at seven of its regional offices. Through these booths, businesses are being trained on how to fill out and submit VAT returns online, get their queries answered, and even file returns instantly with hands-on assistance.
According to a press release from the Dhaka West VAT Commissionerate, the program began on Wednesday (12 November) and will continue until Sunday (16 November).
Officials said this is the first initiative of its kind to teach businesses how to file VAT returns online practically and facilitate on-the-spot submission. The service is available at VAT offices in Mirpur, Mohammadpur, Savar, Dhamrai, Manikganj, Tangail, and Jamalpur under the Commissionerate of VAT.
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To raise awareness among VAT payers, SMS and video messages are also being sent to mobile phones, explaining how businesses can file their returns online from home.
Kazi Farid Uddin, Commissioner of Customs, Excise and VAT Commissionerate, Dhaka (West), told The Business Standard, "We have launched this awareness program to encourage businesses to submit VAT returns online."
He added, "The National Board of Revenue (NBR) will soon introduce an online VAT refund system. To be eligible for online refunds, businesses must first submit returns online. Once they do so, they won't need to visit VAT offices physically anymore."
"With the training provided through these booths, business owners will be able to submit their own VAT returns online," he said.
According to officials from the VAT Commissionerate office, the seven VAT offices under its jurisdiction currently have 76,000 registered BIN (Business Identification Number) holders, approximately 60% of whom already submit VAT returns online. The office expects that with increased awareness, 100% online submission will soon be possible.
It is worth noting that business owners have long complained about harassment and 'extra costs' when visiting VAT offices to file returns or receive related services. Officials believe that shifting to a fully online VAT submission system will significantly reduce such inconveniences.
