The Uganda Revenue Authority is the government body responsible for collecting and managing taxes in Uganda. It was established in 1991 and has since been instrumental in ensuring that the country’s tariff system is efficient and effective.
The Uganda Revenue Authority is responsible for collecting taxes and other revenue on behalf of the government of Uganda. Its main objectives are to increase returns collection, improve compliance and reduce the tariff gap. Additionally, the unit has also focused on combating levy evasion and fraud through the use of data analytics and intelligence gathering. This has led to the identification and prosecution of tariff evaders, further increasing returns collection and improving compliance.
These other articles might interest you:
Key initiatives
The authority has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving tax compliance and increasing revenue collection.
One of the key initiatives implemented by the Uganda Revenue Authority is the use of electronic tariff payment systems. This has made it easier for taxpayers to pay their taxes and has resulted in increased revenue collection. The authority has also been working to improve tariff education and awareness among the public, to increase compliance and reduce tax evasion.
URA laws and acts
The Uganda Revenue Authority is responsible for enforcing tariff laws in Uganda. The URA has several laws that it enforces, including the Income Tax Act, the Value Added Tax Act, and the Excise Duty Act. These laws are designed to ensure that individuals and businesses pay their fair share of taxes.
The Income Tax Act requires individuals and businesses to pay taxes on their income. This includes salaries, wages, and profits from businesses. The Value Added Tax Act requires businesses to charge VAT on goods and services sold in Uganda. The Excise Duty Act requires businesses to pay excise duty on certain goods, such as alcohol and tobacco. Individuals and businesses need to comply with these laws to avoid penalties and fines.
Major services offered
The Uganda Revenue Authority delivers a range of services to taxpayers. The main services offered by the URA include levy registration, levy compliance, customs and border control, returns collection, and taxpayer education.
Tax registration
Tax registration is a service offered by the division to individuals and businesses who are required to pay taxes. This service ensures that taxpayers are registered with the URA and issued a Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Tax compliance
Tax obedience is another important service delivered by the unit. It confirms that taxpayers comply with levy laws and regulations. The URA provides guidance and support to taxpayers to ensure that they understand their levy obligations and comply with them.
Customs and border control
Customs and border control is a service proposed by the unit to guarantee that goods entering or leaving the country are properly documented and taxed. This assistance helps to prevent smuggling and other illegal activities.
Revenue collection
Revenue collection is a key facility offered by the division. This facility involves collecting taxes and other revenues on behalf of the government. The URA certify that taxpayers pay their taxes on time and in full.
Taxpayer education
Finally, taxpayer education is a solution to educate taxpayers on levy laws and regulations. This facility helps to increase tax compliance and reduce tax evasion. The URA gives training and workshops to taxpayers to help them understand their levy obligations and how to comply with them.
Key alliances
The Uganda Revenue Authority has formed important partnerships that have helped the business expand and succeed. These partnerships have been established with a range of parties, including international organizations, businesses, and government agencies.
One of the key alliances of the agency is with the Uganda Police Force. This partnership has been crucial in the fight against tariff evasion and smuggling. The two organizations have collaborated in conducting joint operations and investigations, resulting in the arrest and prosecution of several tariff evaders and smugglers.
URA has also formed alliances with various international organizations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). These cooperations have been instrumental in providing technical assistance and capacity building to URA staff. The World Bank, for instance, has supported URA in the implementation of the Electronic Single Window System, which has improved efficiency in customs clearance processes.
