Employers Urged to File Returns by March 31

Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) is encouraging employers to utilize the online filing system and submit their annual returns by the March 31 deadline.

Manual filing of returns ceased on March 1 this year, when it became mandatory for all employers with more than 20 employees to file the Employer’s annual return SO2 form online via the Jamaica tax portal:  www.jamaicatax-online.gov.jm.

Director of Communications at TAJ, Meris Haughton, told JIS News that with the online filing now a mandatory requirement, a number of mechanisms are in place to assist persons to register and file the return electronically.

“These mechanisms include direct assistance through one-on-one sessions with employers and separate help stations in Tax offices islandwide. Our partner agency, the National Housing Trust (NHT), is also offering support to guide persons in the process to file online,” she said.

Employers are also asked to ensure they have the correct TRN and NIS for their employees to avoid the system rejecting their records.

Employers who fail to file on time may face court action; however, the TAJ has also introduced incentives to encourage employers to file on time. Employers who file on time will become eligible for the Government’s employment tax credit next year.

Employers may also get assistance to register and file their returns online by contacting the TAJ or NHT customer care centres at 1-888-TAXHELP (829-4357) OR 1-888-CALL NHT (225-5648), respectively.