VAT IN UAE
Value Added Tax (VAT) is a tax on consumption and it applies to almost all goods and services. As most of the management of the companies might be aware of the fact that as part of diversifying the economy and revenue generation, the GCC governments have decided to adopt Value Added Tax (VAT).
UAE is also going to adopt VAT which applies to almost all goods and services except basic food items, healthcare, and education.
Though the burden normally lies on the ultimate consumer the business entities need to change the systems, processes, and procedures to comply the new legal requirement which is expected to be implemented by the government effective from 1st Jan 2018.
Normal requirements under VAT system the companies have to comply:
- At the time of purchase of goods or availing of services – Ensure that in the case of taxable items whether tax has been properly charged (input tax)by the supplier and details given in the invoices.
- At the time of sale or provision of services – Apply the rate on the sale value and reduce the amount of input tax to arrive the amount to be paid.
- Make the payment of tax computed and due within stipulated date to Govt.
- Filing the VAT returns to the Govt authorities by providing the relevant information requested by the GOVT, within the stipulated period.
- Maintain proper stock, invoices, accounts, VAT returns, and other relevant records to justify the tax paid at the time of purchase.
The above requirements demand more control and safety on stock, invoices, and records, ensure proper filing system, modification/ upgradations of software, compliance of due dates for collection, payment, and remittance of tax, filing of VAT returns to govt etc.
Then the role of the accountant will be very important for the compliance of VAT. Maintenance of accounts and records is also important as per new company law etc.