Mauritius 2009 Free Income Tax Assistance Scheme Overview

Overview of the Free Income Tax Assistance (FITA) Scheme 2009 in Mauritius

The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official notice regarding the 2009 edition of the Free Income Tax Assistance (FITA) scheme. This initiative aims to facilitate taxpayers in the preparation and filing of their income tax returns for the assessment year 2009/2010. The scheme underscores the government’s commitment to simplifying tax compliance and promoting voluntary disclosure through accessible support services.

Scope and Objectives of the FITA Scheme

The primary goal of the FITA scheme is to aid individual taxpayers in accurately completing their income tax returns for the fiscal year ending on 30 June 2009. The scheme is particularly targeted at individuals who may face complexities in their tax affairs, including those owning multiple properties, high-capacity vehicles, or other assets subject to specific tax obligations. By providing free assistance, the MRA seeks to ensure compliance and reduce the likelihood of penalties arising from incorrect filings.

Who Is Eligible for Assistance?

The scheme is available to all taxpayers who meet any of the following criteria:

• Persons with chargeable income for the assessment year 2009/2010.
• Owners of residential properties on which the National Residential Property Tax is payable during the year ending 30 June 2009.
• Individuals owning more than one residence.
• Owners of immovable properties acquired for an aggregate purchase price exceeding Rs 2 million or those who have incurred construction expenditure exceeding this amount.
• Individuals possessing a motor vehicle with an engine capacity exceeding 2000 cubic centimeters.
• Owners of pleasure crafts as defined under the Tourism Act 2004.

Taxpayers fitting any of these descriptions are encouraged to seek assistance at designated FITA centers to ensure their returns are correctly completed and submitted on time.

How and When to Access the Free Assistance

The MRA has already dispatched the relevant income tax forms to taxpayers via postal services. Additionally, these forms are available for download on the official website of the Mauritius Revenue Authority at http://mra.gov.mu. To support taxpayers in the filing process, the MRA will operate the FITA scheme over the weekend of 26th and 27th September 2009, from 08:30 to 16:30 daily.

Taxpayers are advised to visit the nearest designated FITA center with their original Statement of Emoluments and Tax Deduction, duly certified and signed by their employer. This documentation is essential for verifying income details and tax deductions, facilitating accurate return preparation.

FITA Centers and Locations

Payment of Income Tax and Penalties

In addition to assisting with the filing of returns, the scheme provides facilities for taxpayers to make their income tax payments at the same centers. Payments can be made in cash or by cheque, with the latter requiring the cheque to be crossed “Account Payee Only” and to include the taxpayer’s Tax Account Number (TAN) on the reverse side.

It is important to note that failure to file the income tax return by the deadline of 30 September 2009 may result in penalties. The applicable penalty is Rs 2000 per month, up to a maximum of Rs 20,000. Moreover, unpaid tax amounts will attract an additional penalty of 5% of the outstanding tax, along with interest at the rate of 1% per month.

Contact and Additional Information

Taxpayers requiring further assistance or clarification are encouraged to contact the MRA hotline at 207 6010. The authority emphasizes the importance of timely compliance and offers support to ensure that all taxpayers meet their legal obligations efficiently and accurately during the 2009/2010 assessment cycle.

This official notice from the Mauritius Revenue Authority underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency, compliance, and taxpayer support through accessible and free services during the tax filing period.