By Irene Kabakama
In an effort to spread tax education and improve taxpayer compliance, URA participated in a business exhibition organized by the Uganda Small Scale Industries Association (USSIA) in Fort Portal City.
Locals received tax-related services at the four-day exhibition, including TIN registration, filing tax returns, and insights on taxes levied on small enterprises.
The chairperson Creative Women Development Association, Beatrice Birungi encouraged small business owners to register for Tax Identification Numbers (TINs), emphasizing that the service is free.
She noted that when she initially registered, she was mistakenly categorized as a rental business, which led her TIN to accumulate a tax debt of UGX7 million. “When I visited the URA stall, they were able to correct my registration details.”
USSIA Executive Secretary, Namwanje Veronica urged small business owners to always contact URA anytime they receive emails or messages.
“URA is made up of people like you; why should you fear them? When you get a message from them, approach them to get clarification and understanding. URA will listen to you,” she said.
Namwanje commended URA for helping small-scale business owners by educating them about taxes through tax education and sensitization programs.
Hon. Linda Irene Mugisha, Fort Portal Woman MP, encouraged exhibitors to collaborate and support each other to take full advantage of the opportunities available.
“Many exhibitors have outstanding creative work but you are unaware of the opportunities that exist. It is important to register your businesses and pay taxes, as this contributes to the government’s ability to provide necessary services and support young entrepreneurs to enhance the value of their products,” said Hon. Mugisha
She reminded exhibitors to take advantage of the waiver window, which allows for the waiving of interests and penalties, upon payment of principal tax only, saying that these initiatives aim to support business owners, as the government strives to ensure their survival.
The street exhibition that attracted over 40 exhibitors, was supported by the URA and other stakeholders.
