By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) has achieved an impressive year-to-date revenue collection of E6.02 billion which is a 13% increase compared to last year’s performance under the eTax system.
This was shared by the Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, as he officially launched the 2024 Tax Filing Season, where he emphasized this year’s theme, “Stay Compliant, Stay Ahead,” as a critical message to all taxpayers in Eswatini.
In his address, the Minister highlighted the importance of adherence to tax obligations and stressed the key deadlines that taxpayers must meet during this season.
RELATED: Two million tourists, two billion revenue by 2027
He urged the taxpayers to stay compliant with their tax duties.
During the launch, Rijkenberg extolled the collective role of taxpayers and the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) in driving the nation forward through efficient tax collection and compliance.
The theme, “Stay Compliant, Stay Ahead,” he noted, is not merely a reminder, but a directive.
He explained that by maintaining compliance, taxpayers avoid penalties, ensure smooth business operations, and improve financial management, all while supporting Eswatini’s broader economic agenda.
Compliance, he stressed, is key to advancing both individual success and national prosperity.
The Minister went on to lay out the essential deadlines for the 2024 filing season. First, employers are required to submit their Annual PAYE Reconciliation and make the necessary payments by 30 September.
This marks a crucial starting point for businesses to ensure their payroll tax obligations are in order.
For businesses in general, the deadline of 31 October is particularly significant, as they must file and settle all tax obligations by that date.
Finally, individuals, especially those with multiple income streams, high-net-worth individuals, and professionals, must file their tax returns and complete payments by 30 November.
The Minister said that these deadlines are more than administrative tasks and they are vital obligations that directly impact the nation’s financial ecosystem.
An important highlight of the launch was the introduction of TaxEase, a new digital platform that promises to revolutionize the tax filing process in Eswatini.
RELATED: ESCCOM makes E43.4 million in revenue
Introduced in March 2024, TaxEase is designed to provide a seamless and convenient way for taxpayers to file their returns from anywhere, whether they are at home, in the office, or on the move.
Rijkenberg proudly noted that the platform allows users to link multiple Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) to a single account, offering flexibility and convenience for individuals and businesses alike.
Some users, he pointed out, have already linked and managed up to 20 TINs through the platform, demonstrating its adaptability for various taxpayer needs.
The Minister also highlighted the successful adoption of the TaxEase platform since its launch.
By 12 September, an impressive 8,124 taxpayers had filed their returns through the system, signalling widespread trust in this new method of tax filing.
Additionally, a total of 54,842 tax returns have been processed on the platform, broken down into 38,900 PAYE returns, 11,466 VAT returns, 368 Corporate Income Tax (CIT) returns, and 3,108 Personal Income Tax (PIT) returns.
In terms of revenue collection, Rijkenberg proudly announced that the ERS has recorded a year-to-date revenue collection of E6.02 billion, representing a 13% increase compared to the previous year’s performance under the legacy eTax system.
This growth in revenue collection, he said, is an example of the effectiveness of the new TaxEase platform and the increasing willingness of taxpayers to comply with their obligations through the simplified process.
However, the transition to the new platform has not been without its challenges. The Minister acknowledged that there have been some minor issues encountered by users during the transition phase.
He reassured taxpayers that the ERS is working diligently to resolve these issues, and that assistance is readily available for those experiencing difficulties.
The goal, he emphasized, is to ensure that all taxpayers can stay compliant with ease, without unnecessary obstacles in the filing process.
Throughout his address, Rijkenberg repeatedly highlighted the importance of compliance in building a stronger Eswatini.
He reminded the audience that timely tax filing is not just a legal requirement, but a civic duty that contributes to the nation’s overall development.
The revenue collected from taxes, he explained, is crucial in funding essential public services, including infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and social welfare.
“By fulfilling their tax obligations, taxpayers are playing an active role in shaping the future of Eswatini, ensuring that the country’s economic foundation remains strong, and its public services continue to improve,” the Minister said.
Moreover, the Minister extended his sincere gratitude to all taxpayers for their ongoing support of the ERS and their dedication to compliance.
As the 2024 tax season gets underway, Rijkenberg urged everyone to embrace the theme of the year, “Stay Compliant, Stay Ahead,” and to take full advantage of the TaxEase platform.
In doing so, he assured the audience, they would not only meet their obligations but also contribute to the collective progress of the nation.
