Tax Troubles: NBR Focuses on E-Return Adoption
Despite nearly 10 million Tax Identification Number (TIN) holders in Bangladesh, only 36,000 file returns regularly. Challenges like a lack of familiarity with online platforms and difficulties faced by senior government officials in filing e-returns have contributed to low adoption. Complaints about slow loading of the National Board of Revenue's (NBR) web pages further discourage taxpayers.
To address these issues, the NBR is emphasizing online tax filing and has made e-return submission mandatory for certain professions. As part of its automation drive, the agency is committed to promoting e-filing through training, call centers, and awareness campaigns.
Since November 3, an Income Tax Information Service Month has been underway, providing uninterrupted assistance across 869 circles in 41 tax zones. However, visits to tax offices in Segunbagicha reveal a comparatively lower turnout of taxpayers due to the mandatory e-return requirement for select professions.
To ease the process, Tax Zone-1 in Segunbagicha has established hands-on support for e-return submissions. Commissioner Md. Lutful Azim stated, "We are striving to reduce taxpayer harassment by enhancing our services. Online filing is the way forward, and embracing it will minimize complaints."
