In a public notice issued on Monday, January 29, 2024, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) has informed the public about the approaching deadline for filing Goods and Services Tax (GST) returns and making payments. The due date for these transactions, related to the month of December 2023, is set on or before January 31, 2024.

The notice emphasizes that all GST taxpayers must adhere to this deadline to avoid penalties outlined in the GST Act of 2009 as amended. The penalties are as follows:

Large Taxpayers: NLe 50,000
Medium Taxpayers: NLe 25,000

It’s crucial to note that these penalties are separate from the actual GST liability due for the period and any interest that may accrue after the due date.

The Authority has also highlighted its intent to take enforcement actions against defaulting taxpayers. These actions include, but are not limited to:

1.Garnishment/third-party recovery

2.Sealing of business premises

  1. Prevention from clearing goods through the ports

  2. Prevention from traveling in and out of Sierra Leone

  3. Naming and shaming

  4. Seizure and auctioning of business assets

7.Litigation or court action, among other measures.

The public is reminded that filing and payment of GST should be conducted through the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS). The NRA urges taxpayers to comply promptly to avoid the consequences of non-compliance.