874 Taxation Handbook

This edition does not contain amendments effective 1st July 2012
TAXATION HANDBOOK
A Guide to Taxation in Uganda
TAXATION HANDBOOK A Guide to Taxation in Uganda
A Publication of Uganda Revenue Authority
FOUNTAIN PUBLISHERS
Kampala
Fountain Publishers P. O. Box 488 Kampala E-mail: sales@fountainpublishers.co.ug publishing@fountainpublishers.co.ug Website: www.fountainpublishers.co.ug Distributed in Europe and Commonwealth countries outside Africa by African Books Collective Ltd. P. O. Box 721 Oxford OX1 9EN, UK Email: orders@africanbookscollective.com Website: www.africanbookscollective.com Uganda Revenue Authority 2011 First published 2011 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced or utilised in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical or other means now known or hereafter invented, including copying and recording, or in any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publishers.
Layout, design: Robert Asaph Sempagala-Mpagi
ISBN 978-9970-02-977-8
Cataloguing-in-Publication Data Taxation Handbook: A Guide to Taxation in Uganda Kampala: Fountain Publishers, 2011 __ p; __ cm. Includes tables ISBN 978-9970-02-977-8 1. Guide to Taxation I.Uganda
Foreword ............................................................ vii Part A Background to Taxation ........................1

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Introduction to Taxation.....................................3 History of Taxation Handbook...........................4 The Legality y of Taxes Collected by the Central Cen Government ................................6 Principles of Taxation ..........................................7 Characteristics of Taxes.......................................9 Classification of Tax .......................................... 10 Role of Taxation ................................................. 11 Structure of the Ugandan Tax System..............12 Brief on E-Tax..................................................... 13
Part B
Income Tax .......................................... 17

1 2 3 4 5
Introduction ....................................................... 19 Definition of Key Terms.................................... 19 Scope................................................................... 21 Sources of Income .............................................. 21 Exempt Income ..................................................37
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6 7 8 9
Determination of Tax liability y .......................... 37 Persons assessable to Tax ...................................39 Income Tax Registration ...................................50 Returns of Income ............................................. 52
10 Income Tax Clearance Certificate.....................56 11 Assessments .......................................................57 12 Objections and Appeals under Income Tax......58 13 Withholding Tax System ...................................60
Part C
Value Added Tax (VAT) ......................67

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Background ........................................................69 Definition of Key Terms....................................69 Scope of VAT...................................................... 71 VAT Registration ...............................................72 Supply of Goods and Services ........................... 81 Calculation of VAT ...................................... .......85 Tax Invoice ........................................... ...............92 VAT Return and Payment of Tax x......................93 VAT Assessments...............................................95
10 Objections and Appeals .. ....................................96 11 VAT Refund .......................................................97 12 Administrative Issu ssues ........................................99 99
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URA Toll-free Help line 0800-117000
Part D
Local Excise Duty .............................. 101

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Local Excise Duty y ............................................ 103 Taxable Value ...................................................103 Tax Point ..........................................................103 Licensing...........................................................104 Remission (waiver) of Excise Duty y ................. 104 Returns and Payment ......................................104 Tax Computation/Tax tion/Tax Rat Rates .......................... 105
Part E
Non-Tax Revenue (NTR) ...................109

1 2
Non-Tax Revenue (NTR) ................................ 111 Stamp Duty y ..................................................... 111
Part F
Customs ............................................ 119

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Customs ........................................................... 121 Operating Environment................................... vironment . 122 Definition of Key Terms ..................................125 Defi Customs Procedures .........................................128 Clearance of Passengers and Baggage.............. 132 Exemptions under the Fifth Schedule of EAC-CMA.................................... 133 Specific Duty y.................................................... 136 Export Duty y ..................................................... 140
Computation of Import Duty......................... y 141
10 Objections and Appeal .................................... 142
Part G
Special Features of the Taxes Administered by the URA ................. 143

1 2 3 4 5 6
Payment of Tax ................................................ 145 Regulations....................................................... 145 Rulings.............................................................. 146 Remission of Tax ............................................. 147 Double Taxation Treaties ................................ 147 Taxpayers Charter ................................ 147 160
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I am glad to introduce to you the Taxation Handbook: A Guide to Taxation in Uganda. The handbook has been developed as a guide to our stakeholders in line with the administration of central government taxes in Uganda. The main objective of this handbook is to provide information and serve as reference material for all our stakeholders to include the academic fraternity. It has been put together by a taskforce of the Uganda Revenue Authority in n conjunction with the National Curriculum Development Develo Centre. This is ha handbook comes at a time when taxation as a subject has been introduced not only in tertiary institutions, but also in primary and secondary schools. Since everyone, in one way or another pays taxes, it is crucial that we come up with a handbook that will offer answers to the numerous questions on taxation raised by the general public. The handbook clearly outlines the structure of Ugandas tax system, the he different taxes that are pa paid and the taxpayers xpayers obligations as well as different ways in which the aggrieved taxpayer may seek redress. The handbook seeks to simplify the laws which govern taxation, for the benefit of our stakeholders and the academic fraternity. I hope that this handbook, which comes as a key complementary document to the taxation-related laws of Uganda, will help to generate a better understanding of taxation.
Foreword
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On behalf of the Uganda Revenue Authority, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those individuals, organisations and institutions that have played a key role in producing this handbook. In particular we recognize the development partners who sponsored the curriculum development in schools and the staff of URA for their contribution to the project. Developing Uganda together, Allen Kagina
Commissioner General Uganda Revenue Authority
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Background g to Taxation
Part A
Part A Background to Taxation
Background to Taxation
1 Introduction to Taxation
The evolution of taxation is attributed to the development of the modern state, which led to increased expenditure for infrastructure and public services.
1.1
Origin of Taxation
Tax is the price we pay for civilization, which goes hand in hand nd with organized society. For society to be organize ganized, it needs a well-financed administrative structure. Therefore, taxation in its different forms has struc existed as long as society had the minimum elements of government. Tax is defined as a monetary charge imposed by the government on persons, entities, transactions or property to yield public revenue. Where payment is not monetary, a more wide embracing definition has been adopted as: Taxes are the enforced nforced proportional contributions from m persons and property levied by the State by v virtue of its sovereignty for the support of government and for all public needs (Thomas. M. Cooley: The Law of Taxation). One of the main characteristics of a tax is that the payer does not demand something equivalent in return from the government for the payment. It is expected that when taxes are collected, they are used by government for public good and not just for those who make the payment.
History of Taxation in East Africa

Taxation as understood today was introduced in East Africa by the early British colonial administrators through the system of compulsory public works such as road construction, building of administrative headquarters and schools, as well as forest clearance and other similar works. The first formal tax, the hut tax, was introduced in 1900. This is when the first common tariff arrangements were established between Kenya and Uganda. Through this, Ugandans started paying customs duty as an indirect tax, which involved imposition of an ad valorem import duty at a rate of 5% on all goods entering East Africa, through the port of Mombasa and destined for Uganda. A similar arrangement was subsequently made with German East Africa (Tanganyika) for goods destined for Uganda that entered East Africa through Dar-esSalaam and Tanga ports. This gave rise to revenue e which was remitted to Uganda. The Protectorate government heavily relied on customs cu duties to fund its programs, yet the indigenous ous Africans were not engaging in activities that would wo propel the growth of the monetary economy my. Accordingly, government introduced a flat rate e poll p tax that was imposed on all male adults. The requirement req to pay tax forced the indigenous Ugandan ans to enter the market sector of the economy thro hrough either selling their agricultural produce or hiring out their services. The tax burden was later increased ncreased by the introduction of o
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Income tax was introduced in Uganda in 1940 by a Protectorate ordinance. It was mainly payable by the Europeans and Asians but was later on extended to Africans. In 1952, the ordinances were replaced by the East African Income Tax Management Act, which laid down the he basic legal provisions found in the current inco income tax law. The East African Income Tax Management Act of 1952 was repealed and replaced Mana by the East African Income Tax Management Act of 1958. The administration of both income tax and customs duty was done by departments of the East African Community (EAC) until its collapse. Under the EAC dispensation, there were regional taxing statutes and uniform administration but the national governments (or partner states, as they were called) retained the right to define ta tax rates. Aft the breakup of the EAC, the tax departments After were transferred to the Ministry of Finance with the transfer of the Income Tax Department in 1974; followed by the Customs Department in 1977. In 1991, the function of administering Central government taxes was shifted from the Ministry of Finance to the Uganda Revenue Authority, a body corporate established by an Act of Parliament.
an additional tax to finance local governments. This culminated into the first tax legislation in 1919 under the Local Authorities Ordinance. In 1953, following recommendations by a committee headed by Mr. C.A.G Wallis, graduated personal tax was introduced to finance local governments.
Taxation Handbook
The EAC was re-established in 1999 by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. Rwanda and Burundi joined the EAC in 2007. The EAC in December 2004 enacted the East African Community Customs Management Act 2004 (EAC-CMA). This Act governs the administration of the EA Customs union, including the legal, administrative and operations.
The Legality of Taxes collected by the Central Government

Articles 152 (i) of the Uganda Constitution provides that No tax shall be imposed except under the authority of an Act of Parliament. Therefore, the Uganda Revenue Authority Act Cap 196 was put in place to provide the administrative framework in which taxes under various Acts are collected. The Uganda Revenue Authority administers the tax laws (Acts) on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development under the following legislation regulating taxes: (i) Customs Tariff Act. Cap 337. (ii) East African Customs Management Act (iii) Excise Tariff Act Cap 338. (iv) Income Tax Act Cap 340 (v) Stamps Act Cap 342 (vi) Traffic and Road Safety Act Ac Cap 361 (vii) Value Added Tax Act Cap Ca 349 (viii) The Finance Acts.
(ix) All other taxes and non-tax revenue as the Minister responsible for Finance may prescribe.
Principles of Taxation
Principles of taxation are concepts that provide guidelines towards a good tax system. Since many view taxation as a necessary evil, it should be administered in such a way as to create minimum pain to the payer, just like the honey bee which collects nectar from the flower without hurting the flower. Economists over ver time have h laid down the principles that policy licy ma makers should take into account in making tax ax law laws; these are referred to as canons of taxation. The following are the common canons of taxation:
4.1
Equity/Fairness
Tax should be levied fairly so that: (i) The same amount is paid by persons or entities that are equal in earnings or wealth (horizontal equity).
Illustration 1 If B is a shopkeeper and makes a prot of Shs 10,000,000 in a year and is taxed at 10%, which is equal to Shs 1,000,000, and C who is a cattle trader makes a prot of Shs 10,000,000 in a year, he should also be taxed at 10%. Likewise any other person who earns an income of Shs 10, 000,000, should pay the same tax.
(ii) The contribution in tax should increase as the taxable income increases (vertical equity). The principle behind vertical equity, which is most
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applicable in income taxes, is that the burden among taxpayers should be distributed fairly, taking into account individual income and personal circumstances. Vertical equity is to be taxed proportionate to the income one earns. The strongest shoulders should carry the heaviest burden.
Illustration 2 Whereas B and C in illustration 1 were taxed at 10% because both earned 10,000,000; if D earned Shs 15,000,000 this person may be taxed at 15%.
4.2
Convenience
Under normal circumstances, a taxpayer should not undergo undue difficulty to pay tax. Therefore, the place, medium, mode, manner and time of payment should not be an extra burden to the taxpayer.
Illustration 3 A person doing business in Tororo should not be inconvenienced to travel to Kampala to pay his/her taxes. An of ce should be created nearby to ease the process.
4.3
Certainty
A good tax system is one where the tax axes are well understood by the payers and collecto ctors. The time and reason of payment as well as the th amount to be paid by an individual should be well we documented and certain or known. The tax sho hould be based on laws passed by parliament.
4.4
Economical
The administrative cost of collecting taxes should be kept as low as possible to both the collecting agent and the taxpayer. The general principle is that the cost of collection and administration of taxes to the collecting agent should not exceed 5% of the tax revenue. Likewise, the cost of compliance to the taxpayer should be as low as possible and must not be seen to hinder voluntary compliance.
4.5
Simplicity
The type ype of tax and the method of assessment and collection must be simple enough to be understood collec by both the taxpayers and the collectors. Complicated taxes lead to disputes, delays, corruption, avoidance and high costs of collection in terms of time and resources.
4.6
Ability to Pay
The tax should not take away so much of the income being taxed as to discourage urage the performan performance or participation n in the tax base.
Characteristics of Taxes
In complying with the canons of taxation, taxes may be characterised as proportional, progressive or regressive.
5.1
Progressive Tax
This tax is structured in such a way that the tax rate increases as the income increases. Most income taxes are progressive so that higher incomes are taxed at a higher rate. A progressive tax is based on the principle of vertical equity.
Taxation Handbook
5.2
Regressive Tax
This is a tax not based on the ability to pay. A regressive tax is structured that the effective tax decreases as the income increases.
5.3
Proportional Tax
This is a tax whose rate remains fixed regardless of the amount of the tax base. A proportional tax may be considered regressive despite its constant rate when it is more burdensome for low income payers than to high income payers.
Classication of Taxes
Taxes are classified as either direct or indirect. Direct Taxes are imposed on income arising ing from business, employment, property and the e burden b of the tax is borne by the individual or business bus entity. Examples of direct taxes include Co Corporation tax, Individual Income Tax, e.g. Pay As You Earn, capital gains tax and rental tax. Indirect Taxes are taxes levi evied on consumption of goods and services collected ed by an Agent (Taxpayer). Notable indirect taxes include Value Added Taxes (VAT), excise duty, imp mport duty.
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Role of Taxation
(a) To finance Government re-current e cu e t a and d development expenditure, i.e. paying salaries for civil servants ervants and funding long term projects such as construction con of schools, hospitals and roads. (b) It can be used to regulate demand and supply in (b the economy in times of inflation. (c) It encourages development of local industries and protects them against foreign competition with a view to providing employment and saving foreign exchange, by imposing high duties on competing imports. It encourages export of goods and services by reducing or removing tax on the export p in order to make them more competitive in the world market. arket. (d) It protects society from undesirable or harmful (d products and industries by imposing high taxes on them, for instance excise duty on cigarettes and beer as well as environmental levy on used vehicles. (e) To achieve greater equality in the distribution of wealth and income, the government may impose a progressive tax on the incomes and wealth of the
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Illustration 4 Shopkeeper B sells bread to K for Shs 2,000, on which VAT has been charged. The VAT on the bread is Shs 305 and is paid to the Government. Although K has paid the Shs 305 on bread that was priced at Shs 1,695, the tax is accounted to URA by B and K need not follow up the transaction with URA.
rich. The revenue raised is then used to provide social services for the benefit of the society.
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Taxation Handbook
The Structure of the Ugandan Tax System

Executive
President approves Parliaments bills
Parliament
Enacts laws that guide URA in its operations. Approves policy.
Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development
Represents the executive arm in the tax administration. Oversees the operations of the URA. Drafts government tax policies. Funds the operations of URA. Ensures proper national budgeting, utilisation and accountability.
URA Board Administration

Customs
Deals with:
Administers and gives effect to the laws set out in the First Schedule of the URA Act Cap 196. Advises the Minister on revenue implications, tax administration and aspects of policy changes relating to all the taxes. Performs such other functions in relation to revenue as the Minister may direct.
Domestic Taxes
Deals with:
Import duty. VAT on imports. Withholding tax on imports. Trade regulations.
VAT. Income Tax. Rental Tax. Excise Duty. Gaming Tax.
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9.1
Brief on E-Tax
E Registration
URA, through its modernisation process, has introduced a new eTAX system to cater for registration of taxpayers, filing of returns, assessments and payment of taxes. eTAX is a name given to an Integrated Tax Administration System that provides online services to the taxpayer on a 24 hour basis. eTAX enables taxpayer taxpayers to lodge their applications online through throug the web portal, form anywhere on the globe as long as they are connected to the internet. Upon uploading the application on the web portal, the system will generate an e acknowledgement receipt. Note; any attachments have to be delivered to a URA, Domestic Taxes Office. The application will be processed; the applicant will be contacted in case of any query, interview or inspection. The applicant will also be able to search the status of his / her application on the system using a search earch code co indicated on the e acknowledgement receipt. When the application is finally approved, the rec applicant will be issued a TIN with minimum details displayed on the Certificate of Registration. Where the application has been rejected, the taxpayer will be issued a rejection notice stating the reason(s) for rejection.
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The taxpayer will on receipt of TIN be able to log onto the web portal and create his / her own account for any further transactions. Some of the benefits of e registration: a streamlined and less time wasting process, application easily done on the web portal. Besides registration, the taxpayer will be able to amend his / her details with URA in case of any changes. Taxpayer will always receive feedbacks on the application and this will be possible especially when accurate email addresses and telephone numbers (of the taxpayers) are indicated in the application.
9.2
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E Filing
A taxpayer registered with URA for any tax type has an obligation to submit a return for the tax period defined by the respective tax law. URA has facilitated the taxpayer to fulfill this obligation by introducing electronic filing in eTAX. The taxpayer can obtain a return from the web por portal (http://ura.go.ug), save a template on any y storage s devise, take time to fill in the return and validate va the return before they finally upload it on the web portal. If the upload is successful, the taxpay payer will receive an auto generated e-acknowledgem ement receipt which is evidence of submission. In case ase of any problems in filling the respective returns, s, do d not hesitate to send an email about the challen enge to URA on the email
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address; services@ura.go.ug or call the toll free lines. In case there are errors in the return detected by the system, the taxpayer will be given a chance to amend the errors when he/she is issued a Return Modified Advise Notice. The return must be submitted by the due date to avoid penalties for late filing and it must also be submitted for each tax period to avoid estimated assessments that arise out of non submission ubmission of returns. In case the taxpayer r is unab unable to submit a return on time, he or she he can apply for the extension of time to submit a re return late using an application form for late filing also found on the web portal. Some of the benefits accruing from e-filing are that the return process has been clearly separated from the payment process and the taxpayer can now file returns before/ after making the payment, or make the payment before/ after filing the return
9.3
E Payment ment
A taxpayer ta required to make payments to URA for any tax type can do so using the new e payment process. All the taxpayer needs to do is to go onto the URA web portal (http://ura.go.ug), access the payment registration slip, register the payment and go to the bank to make the actual payment over the counter. The taxpayer in future may even not need to go to the bank as such facilities like internet / online banking
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e payment will apply to all payments made to URA including customs, NTR and agency fees. Benefits accruing from e payment are that the taxpayer can utilise the service on a 24 hour basis, the taxpayers costs of movement between his/her premises and URA or the bank are reduced; and thus saving time. Taxpayers can also monitor the status of their payments online through the web portal.
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Income Tax
Part B
Part B Income Tax
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Income Tax
1 Introduction
This is tax imposed on a persons taxable income at specific rates. A person includes an individual, company, partnership, trustee, Government and sub divisions of Government. Income tax is charged on every person p who has chargeable income for or each year of income. Chargeable income is derived from three main types of income, namely; ely; business, bu employment and property. Income tax is administered under the Income Tax Act (1997) Cap 340.
Income Tax
Denition of Key Terms

A Person includes an individual, a partnership, a trust, a company, a retirement fund, a government, a political subdivision of government, and a listed institution. Chargeable Income is the gross income of a person for the year less total deductions allowed under the f Income Tax Act Cap 340 for the year. Gross Income of a person for a year of income is the total amount of business income, employment income and property income other than exempt income. In case of resident persons, Gross income is a persons income from all geographical sources; and in the case
Part B Income Tax
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of non-resident persons, gross income includes only the income derived from Uganda. Residency for tax purposes is defined in relation to individual, partnership and Company as follows: A resident individual is a person who has a permanent home in Uganda; or is present in Uganda: for a period of 183 days or more in any twelve (12) months period that commences or ends during the year of income; or during the year of income and in each of the two preceding years of income, for periods averaging 122 days in each such year of income; or is an employee or official of the government of Uganda posted abroad during the year of income. A resident company is one which: (a) Is incorporated in Uganda under the laws of Uganda (b) Is managed or controlled in Uganda at any time during the year of income. (c) Undertakes a majority of its operations in Uganda da during the year of income. A resident partnership is one where any of the partners pa was a resident person in Uganda during the year of income. Year of Income means the period of twelve months ending on June 30, and includes a substituted s year of income and a transitional year of income. A substituted year of income is a period of 12 months ending on a date other ot than June 30.
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A transitional year of income is a period of less than 12 months that falls between the persons previous accounting date and a new accounting date. This results from a change in a persons accounting date.
Scope
The scope of liability to tax depends on a persons residence status.
Income Tax
Income tax is imposed on Income from business, employment and property. erty. For a resident dent person, pe income tax is charged on gross income me from f all over the world. The tax for a nonresident person is only charged on income derived res from sources within Uganda.
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4.1
Sources of Income
Business Income
Business is defined in the Income Tax Act to include any trade, profession, vocation or adventure in the nature of trade. de. Busine income means any income derived by a Business person in carrying on a business and includes the following amounts, whether of a revenue or capital nature:
The amount of Gains or losses from the disposal of business assets such as land and buildings. Any amount derived by a person as consideration for accepting a restriction on the persons capacity to
Part B Income Tax
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Taxation Handbook
carry on business. For example if Mama Rhoda gives Senkubuge Shs 100,000 to relocate his shop to another area, the Shs 100,000 becomes business income to Senkubuge. The gross proceeds derived by a person from the disposal of trading stock, i.e. sales. The value of any gifts derived by a person in the course of, or by virtue of, a past, present, or prospective business relationship. Interest derived by a person in respect of trade receivables or by a person engaged in the business of banking or money lending. Rent derived by a person whose business is wholly or mainly the holding or letting of property.
The definition of business is therefore inclusive rather than specific such that there can be business which does not arise from trade, profession vocation or adventure in the nature of trade.
4.1.1
Trade Trade has the same meaning as commerce and it involves buying and selling or bartering of goods. goo There are many exceptions to this general defi efinition but the following elements are crosscutting: ng:
The element of prot The regularity of the transactions. The arrangements and effort, and, Compliance with statutory obligations made to make the transactions work.
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Any of the above may determine whether a trade is carried out. However, depending on the facts of each case, the existence of these conditions could generally lead to the likelihood of a trade.
4.1.2
Adventure in the Nature of Trade This refers to transactions where profits arise from activities such as gambling, speculative dealings in commodities, single or one off transactions or unconventional transaction e.g. smuggling.
The definition of an adventure nture in the nature of trade may appear pear sometimes some to overlap with trade, but if either ither is i proved, the requirements for business definit finition are satisfied. The following characteristics may point to an adventure in the nature of trade.

4.1.3
Prot seeking. The way in which the asset was acquired. The nature of the asset. Modication of the asset prior to sale or use. Interval between purchase and sale of the asset. Way in which the sale is effected. Number of transactions. Existence of trading interest in the same eld. Method of nancing the transaction.
Profession This is a paid occupation especially one which requires advanced education and training, e.g. architecture, accounting, law and medicine.
Part B Income Tax
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Income Tax
4.1.4
Taxation Handbook
Vocation This is how one passes ones life when earning a living. More often, it is referred to as a special calling and qualification for a certain kind of work especially for social or religious work. It can thus be used to bring within the scope of income tax any form of regular and continuous profit earning, which does not fall within the categories of trade, business, profession or employment. Earnings from activities related to religion can fall in this category.
Business income is considered if it is derived during the year of income. Derive has been judicially determined to be equivalent to accrue or arising, which also relates to the source of income.
4.1.5
Capital Gains Capital gains arise from the disposal of a business asset that is not a depreciable asset, such as land and buildings. A disposal of an asset occurs when an asset has been sold, exchanged, redeemed, distributed, transferred by way of gift, destroyed or lost by the taxpayer. The he Capital gain is the excess of the consideration over r the th cost base of the asset. Conversely, there may also lso be a loss when the cost base of the asset is higher er than t the consideration received for the business asse set.
Cost base of an asset is the amount paid pa or incurred by the taxpayer in respect of the he asset, including incidental expenditures of a capita ital nature incurred in acquiring the asset, and include udes the market value at the date of acquisition of any an consideration in kind given for the asset.
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Capital gains are included in the gross income of the taxpayer and assessed as a business income.
4.2
Employment Income
Any income derived by an employee from any employment, whether past, present or in future, including the value of any benefit, advantage or facility granted to an employee constitutes employment Income. An amount or benefit is derived in respect of employment if it is provided in respect of past, present or prospective employment. oyment. It also includes an amount or benefit nefit provided provi by a third party under an arrangement gement with an employer or an associate of the e emp employer; and it does not matter whether it is paid to the employee or to his associates. Employment is regarded to exist where there is a contractual relationship between master and a servant for a pay. Employment refers to:
Position of an individual in employment of another person. Directorship of a company. A position entitling the holder to a xed or ascertainable remuneration. Holding or acting in a public of ce.
It is important to distinguish between an employee and an independent contractor. As a general rule, an individual who does not satisfy the definition above automatically becomes an independent contractor.
Part B Income Tax
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Income Tax
who employs/remunerates an individual.
Employer means a person (individual or corporate)
An Employee is an individual engaged in an employment

4.2.1
Employment Income According to the Income tax Act cap 340, Employment income includes:
Wages, salary, leave pay, payment in lieu of leave, overtime pay, fees, commission, gratuity, bonus, allowances (entertainment, duty, utility, welfare, housing, medical, or any other allowances).
Taxation Handbook
The value of any benets in kind provided by/on behalf of the employer to the employee. Amount of private/personal expenditure discharged or reimbursed by the employer. Employment terminal and retirement benets. Insurance premiums paid by the employer for the employee and/or his dependants. Payments in respect of change of employment/contract terms. Discounts in shares allotted to an employee and any gain derived on disposal of a right or option to acquire shares under an employee share acquisition scheme.
Note: It should be noted that all or any of the above in combination comprise employment income.
4.2.2
Benefits in Kind A benefit in kind is the facili cilitation not by way of cash by an employer to an employee mployee as part of past, present
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or future employment terms. Such benefits need not have been in the written employment terms. Taxable non-cash employment benefits include:

4.2.3
Private use of an ofcial motor vehicle. Provision of domestic servants and utilities. Meals, refreshment, entertainment. Relief of debt obligations/interest. Provision of property by employer to employee (at non-arms length terms). Provision of residential accommodation. Any other benets as determined by the Commissioner General.
Valuation of Benefits in Kind As a general rule, the value of a benefit in kind is the fair market value of the benefit on the date it is taken into account for tax purposes less any amount paid by the employee for the benefit.
1. Motor Vehicle Where a benefit provided by an employer to an employee consists of the use or availability for use of a motor vehicle wholly or partly rtly for the private purposes of the employee, the value of the benefit is calculated according to th the following formula: (20% A B/C) D where, A is the market value of the motor vehicle at the time when it was first provided for the private use of the employee.
Part B Income Tax
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Income Tax
2.
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3.
4.
5.
6. 7.
B is the number of days in the year of income in which the motor vehicle was used or available for use for private purposes by the employee for all or a part of the day. C is the number of days in the year of income. D is any payment made by the employee for the benefit. Domestic Assistants (housekeeper, driver, gardener or other domestic assistant) The benefit is the total employment income paid to the domestic assistants, reduced by any payment made by the employee for the benefit. Meals, refreshment or entertainment The benefit is the cost of the meals, etc. to the employer less any payment by the employee. Utilities (Electricity, Water, Telephone, Internet) The benefit is the cost of the utility to the employer less any payment by the employee. Low interest on loans exceeding one million n shillings The benefit is the difference between the interest paid by the employee and the intere terest payable using the statutory interest rate (Bank (Ba of Uganda discount rate at commencemen ment of the year of Income). Debt waiver The benefit is the e amount of the debt waived. Transfer or use of property or provision of services (Furniture and d transportation) t The benefit is the market value of the property or services less any paym ments by the employee.
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8. Accommodation or housing other than by way of reimbursement, discharges or allowances Where a benefit provided by an employer to an employee consists of the provision of accommodation or housing, the value of the benefit in kind is the lesser of: (a) the market rent of the accommodation or housing reduced by any payment made by the employee for the benefit; or (b) 15% of the employment income, including the amount referred d to in paragraph (a), paid by the employer yer to the th employee for the year of income in which wh the accommodation or housing was provided. 9. Any other benet The benefit is the market value of the benefit less any payments by the employee.
4.2.4
Employees Relief This refers to gains or income that is not included in the chargeable income of the employee and therefore not taxable on the employee:
(a) The employee employees income that is below the taxable threshold, currently at Shs 130,000 per month thres (b) Pension. (c) Discharge or reimbursement of medical expenses actually incurred by the employee. (d) Life insurance premiums paid by a taxable employer (company/individual) for the benefit of the employee.
Part B Income Tax
29
Income Tax
(e) Expenses incurred by the employee; discharge or reimbursement for the employee on official duty of the employer. (f) Meals and refreshments or value thereof provided to all employees at equal terms. (g) Employers contribution to a retirement fund for the benefit of the employee. (h) Any non-cash benefits whose value is less than Shs 10,000 a month. (i) Relief of 25% on terminal benefits for employees who have served the employer for at least 10 years. (j) Passage costs. (k) The employment income of an expatriate employee in a listed Institution, under a technical assistance agreement subject to the Ministers approval. (l) Official employment income of persons employed in the armed forces, Uganda Police Force and Uganda Prisons. It excludes persons serving there in civilian capacity. (m) Employment income of Ugandans posted ed to work in Ugandan diplomatic missions abroad oad. (o) Employment income of persons empl mployed by EADB.
4.2.5
Taxation Handbook
Collection of Tax from Employment nt Income This is collected on a monthly basis sis through a system known as Pay As You Earn (PAY AYE) Current Monthly PAYE Tax ax Rates The Income Tax Act obliges liges employers while making payment of employment ment income in any month to
4.2.5
30
withhold tax at the prescribed withholding PAYE tax rates and pay the tax withheld by the 15th day of the following month to the URA.
Monthly emoluments Tax Rate (Bracket)
4. Exceeding ding S Shs 410,000.

4.2.6
Employers Obligation Withhold tax from employment income: to deduct the correct tax from the employees total employment income at the time of effecting payment to every liable employee.
y the 15th Payment: to pay to URA the total tax by day of the month onth immediately following the month in which hich employment em Income was paid. Accountability: to account for the tax deducted from every employee on a monthly basis to Uganda Revenue Authority. Maintenance of Employees Records: to maintain records and keep them for inspection by URA on demand for at least five years.
Part B Income Tax
31
Income Tax
1. Not exceeding Shs 130,000. 2. Exceeding Shs 130,000 but not exceeding Shs 235,000. 3. Exceeding Shs 235,000 but not exceeding Shs 410,000.
Nil 10% of the amount by which chargeable income exceeds Shs 130,000. Shs 10,500 plus 20% of the amount by which chargeable income exceeds Shs 235,000. Shs 45,500 plus 30% of the amount by which chargeable income exceeds Shs 410,000.
4.2.7
Employees Obligation Employees deriving income from more than one source are required to complete an end of year return to declare:

Taxation Handbook
4.2.8
Total income from all sources, including business income. Total taxes paid at source such as PAYE and withholding tax or provisional tax. This excludes presumptive tax and rental tax paid by such employee. Tax payable.
Employees Rights An employee:

4.2.9
Is not required to furnish a PAYE return if tax is fully deducted and paid at source. Is entitled to claim refund of over-paid tax where applicable. Is entitled to accountability for all taxes deducted and paid at source by the employer.
What happens if Tax is Not Paid? An employer who fails to withhold and pay the he tax as required by law is personally liable to pay y the th tax together with any penal tax and interest the thereon. He may however recover it from the employe oyee.
PAYE worked examples

Illustration 1 Acul Ocolo is employed as a security guard in Karacen (U) Ltd. He earns a monthly salary of Shs 125,000.
Required: Is Karacen (U) U) Ltd obliged to deduct PAYE tax from Acul Ocolo?
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Solution No, because Acul Ocolos monthly salary is less than the threshold so his salary does not attract PAYE. Illustration 2 Acul Ocolo is an employee of company Y. He earns the following monthly income: a salary of Shs 200,000; travelling allowance of Shs 50,000 and medical allowance of Shs 30,000.
Compute his monthly PAYE tax liability.

Solution Employment Income: Salary 200,000 Travelling allowance Medical allowance
Total l 280,000
Income Tax
50,000 30,000
Use rates in the third bracket, i.e.

Exceeding Shs 235,000 but not exceeding Shs 410,000. Shs 10,500 plus 20% of the amount by which chargeable income exceeds Shs 235,000.
Step 1
Shs 280,000 - 235,000 .......................................................... 45,000
Step 2
20% 45,000 .............................................................................. 9,000
Step 3
9,000 +10,500 .........................................................................19,500 PAYE ......................................................................................... 19,500
Part B Income Tax
33
4.3
4.3.1
Property Income
Definition Property Income is defined in the Income Tax Act as;
(a) Any dividends, interest, natural resource payments, rents, royalties and any other payments derived by a person from the provision, use or exploitation of property. (b) The value of any gifts derived by a person in connection with the provision, use or exploitation of property. (c) The total amount of any contribution made to a retirement fund during a year of income by a tax exempt employer. (d) Any other income derived by a person but does not include an amount which is business, employment, or exempt income. (e) Any amount included in business income of the person under any other section of the Income Tax x Act.
Note: Rent is classied under business income if its derived by a person whose business is wholly or mainly the holding or letting of property. However, if rent is derived by the person whose business is not wholly or mainly the holding or letting of property, then it is classied under property income. For example if a company receives rent from its properties, then it is classied as property income because it is not in the business of holding or letting of property.
Taxation Handbook
34
4.3.2
Individual Rental Income Tax Tax under this head applies to resident individual persons. The law provides that individual rental income is segregated and taxed separately as though it were the only source of income for the taxpayer.
Rental income is income earned by an individual from letting out immovable property in Uganda (land and buildings). For income tax purposes, it does not matter whether the building is let out as a residence or for commercial use. The rental income me of a resident resid individual for the year of income e is charged cha to tax at the rate of 20% of the chargeab argeable income in excess of the tax free allowance or threshold of Shs 1,560,000 per annum. However, in determining the tax due, a fixed deduction of 20% per annum is allowed on the gross annual rental income of resident individuals. The rental income of a non-resident individual for the year of income is charged to tax at the rate of 15% on gross earning from Uganda. Computation of tax In computing the tax, the following ng are considered: con
Income Tax
Gross on all rents earned during the year. Deduct 20% statutory expenses on the gross rent. Deduct tax free allowance of Shs 1,560,000 to arrive at the chargeable rent income. Apply a rate of 20% on the chargeable income to get the tax.
Part B Income Tax
35
Illustration 4 Acul Ocolo earned annual rent of: Shs 1,200,000 from a house in Kitintale, Shs 800,000 from a house in Kabale and Shs 500,000 from a house in Lyantonde. Solution The rental tax is computed as follows: Gross rental income 2,500,000 Less provision for expenditure (500,000) and loss; 20% 2,500,000 Chargeable rental income 2,000,000 Less the threshold 1,560,000 Net chargeable rent 440,000 Rental tax due: 440,000 20% Shs 88,000
Taxation Handbook
Taxpayers obligation A taxpayer is required to:
Complete a return of rental income for a year of income with supporting agreements where available or rental receipts issued to tenants(s) during the year. Declare ALL your sources of rental income in FULL for a given year of income. The year of income is from July to June. Submit (furnish) the Provisional and annual return to Uganda Revenue Authority, through the nearest local URA Of ce, within three months for the provisional return i.e. not later than 31st September; and six months for the annual return after the end of the relevant year of income, i.e. not later than 31st December Where a provisional return has been led, pay quarterly the rental income tax by the appropriate due date.
Entitlement to tax credit A tax credit may arise if tax has been withheld duri uring the year of income.
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Exempt Income
Certain incomes by law are not taxed and they are referred to as exempt income. Exempt income is listed in section 21 of the Income Tax Act.
Determination of Tax liability

The basis for determination of Income tax liability for resident persons is the gross income of the p person reduced by allowable able deductions deducti and any foreign income tax x paid on foreign income included in the gross s income inco referred to as a foreign tax credit, not exceeding the Ugandan income tax payable on the exce foreign source income for that year. Allowable deductions are expenditures and losses incurred when deriving chargeable income. The general rule is that for expenditure to be allowed it must have been incurred to produce the income that has been declared as gross income. Where the expenditure is only partly incurred in the production of income included luded in the gross income, the Income Tax Act provides prov for apportionment such that the deduction allowed is only to the extent to which it dedu was so incurred. Accordingly, the general features of deductions are: (a) There must be an expenditure or loss (b) The expenditure or loss must be incurred by a person during the year of income. (c) The expenditure or loss must be incurred in the production of income included in gross income.
Part B Income Tax
37
Income Tax
The Income Tax Act lists, under sections 22 38, a number of expenditures and loses that are allowable deductions. For instance, Interests, bad debts, repairs, depreciation, initial allowances, start up costs, meals, etc. Capital expenditure e.g. purchase of a motor vehicle is not in itself an allowable deduction but it is allowed capital deduction for its depreciation. Likewise all depreciable assets are allowed a deduction as specified in the Sixth schedule of the Income tax Act. Capital allowances are thus treated as operating expenses and deducted in arriving at chargeable income or profits chargeable to tax. Deductions allowed on capital expenditure include the following categories: 1. Depreciable assets varies as per 6th Schedule of the Act 2. Initial allowance 50% and 75% based on areas 3. Initial allowance for buildings 20% 4. Industrial building 5% straight line depreciation allowance 5. Start up costs 25% per year for four years 6. Costs of intangible assets actual cost 7. Farm works deductions 20% for five ve years 8. Deductions on mineral exploration ion expenditure all capital expenditure Capital allowances are calculated ed for a year of Income and are granted as a deduction n when the capital asset is put to use.
Taxation Handbook
38
7
7.1
Persons assessable to Tax

Taxation of Companies
Income tax on companies is imposed under the Income Tax Act on every person who has chargeable income for any year of income. A company is defined as a body of persons corporate or unincorporate, whether created or recognised under the law in force in Uganda or else where and includes a unit trust, but does oes not inclu include any other trust or a partnership. p. Accordingly, Acco limited liability companies, companie mpanies limited by guarantees, associations, NGOs, etc. are taxed under the company taxation regime. Based on the above definition, even non-resident companies are assessable (subject) to tax in Uganda on their income that is derived from Uganda while resident companies are subject to tax on their worldwide income. Income tax paid by companies is referred to as corporation tax. (Individuals dividuals pay individual income tax).
7.1.1
Rat Rate of Tax Applicable to Companies The current rate of tax (2010) applicable to companies is 30%. The chargeable income for both resident and non-resident companies is taxed at this rate.
Part B Income Tax
39
Income Tax
7.1.2
Taxable Income of Companies In deriving the chargeable income, the company is granted the applicable deductions specified in the Income Tax Act. Illustration 5 Computation of chargeable income Acul Ocolo Ltds prot and loss account for the year of 30 June 2006 was as follows:
Taxation Handbook
Sales.....................................................................1,430,000,000
Less cost of sales...............................................1,340,000,000 Gross Prot............................................................. 90,000,000

Other Income
Bad debt recovered (previously written off) .... 2,000,000 Prot on sales of furniture ........................................ 200,000 92,200,000
Less: Operating expenses
Salaries and wages .................................................. 11,900,000 Staff meals (canteen equal terms)......................... 3,100,000 Telephone ...................................................................3,000,000 Loss on sale of motor vehicle ................................1,204,000 Electricity ....................................................................2,900,000 General expenses .....................................................1,800,000 Trading license .............................................................. 500,000 Generator expenses ................................................ 1,100,000 Stationery .................................................................. 2,300,000 Directors remuneration ...................................... 20,000,000 Bad debts written off.............................................. f 2,000,000 Rent and rates ...........................................................3,200,000 Repairs and maintenance ....................................... 2,500,000 Subscriptions and donations ..................................1,000,000 Depreciation ............................................................. 6,000,000 Legal and accountancy fees ....................................1,400,000 Net Prot ................................................................ 28,296,000
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Notes
General expenses include the following:
Travelling expenses of staff (van) and directors ......1,000,000 Entertaining suppliers ......................................................... 800,000
Repairs and maintenance
Redecorating existing premises ........................................500,000 Renovations of premises to remedy the Disrepair by the previous occupant ...............................................2,000,000
Legal and accountancy charges
Debt collection services ......................................................200,000 Staff service agreements ...................................................250,000 45 year lease on new premises ....................................... 150,000 Audit and accountancy .......................................................500,000 Consultancy directors wife project ................................ 300,000 Total ..................................................................................... 1,400,000
Subscriptions and donations include:
Donation to political party ................................................500,000 Subscription to UMA .......................................................... 300,000 Fees to trade fare ................................................................200,000 Total ..................................................................................... 1,000,000 On 1 July 2005, the tax written down values of plant and machinery were as follows: Class 1 .................................................................................. 1,400,000 Class II ................................................................................12,600,000 Class IV ............................................................................ 48,000,500
The company purchased the following assets in the year:
Computer 1 August 2005...............................................2,500,000 Furniture 1 December 2005 ......................................10,400,000
Part B Income Tax
41
Income Tax
Computation of tax
Acul Ocolo Limited Tax Computation 2006
Net Prot per accounts

Add Depreciation
28,296,000
6,000,000 Loss on sale of m/v 1,204,000 Entertaining suppliers 800,000 Repairs and maintenances 2,000,000 Legal and accountancy fees 450,000 Subscription and donation 500,000 Depreciation allowance
10,954,000
Taxation Handbook
Less Prot on sale of furniture
200,000 18,400,100 (18,600,100) 20,649,900

6,194,970
Chargeable Prot
Tax at 30%
The amounts above are disallowed due to the following:
Depreciation of Shs 6,000,000 is according to the Companys policy Losson sale of M/V Shs 1,204,000 is of a capital nature Entertaining suppliers Shs 800,000 was insured outside the production of income Legal and accountancy fees relate to Shs 150,000 lease which is capital and Shs 300,000 consultancy for wifes project not related to the business Donations to political party Shs 500,000 is not incurred in the production of income. The amounts allowed as deductions are due to: Prot on sale of furniture Shs 200,000 is capital in nature, its prot is not taxable Depreciation allowance is the capital deductions calculated at the specied rates under the Income tax Act.
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7.1.3
Obligations of Companies Companies have the following obligations to fulfill:
(a) Submission of provisional tax estimates Companies are required to submit provisional tax estimates within the first six months from the beginning of their accounting period. The estimated tax is payable in two installments as follows:
Income Tax
First installment: by the end of the sixth month from the beginning g of the accounting period. Second nd inst installment: by the end of the twelfth month from the beginning of the accounting mon period. (b) Submission of the returns Companies are required to submit their returns by the end of sixth month from the end of the accounting period to which the return relates.
Note: All companies are now required to submit selfassessment returns. This means that they are required to assess themselves and their assessment will be deemed to be the assessment by the Commissioner General.
( Record keeping Companies, just like all the (c) other taxpayers, are required to keep records pertaining to their business transactions for five years after the end of the year of income to which the record or evidence relates.
Part B Income Tax
43
7.2
Taxation of Individual Persons

The chargeable income of a person for a year of income is the gross income of the person for the year less total deductions allowed under the Income Tax Act for the year.
Illustration 6 Acul Ocolo earned income from different sources for the year 2006 as indicated below: Business income .................................................... 25,000,000 Employment income ...............................................2,400,000 Property income (interest from Stanbic Bank) ... 500,000 Dividend from Shell (U) Ltd ..................................... 275,000 Interest on treasury bills .......................................... 150,000 In addition, he incurred expenses amounting to Shs 1,200,000 to earn the income.
Taxation Handbook
Determine Acul Ocolos gross income and chargeable income.

Solution Gross income includes all income from all sources less tax exempt income Business income.............................................................. 25,000,000 Employment income .........................................................2,400,000 Property income (interest from Stanbic Bank)..............500,000 Dividend from Shelll .............................................................. 275,000 Interest from treasury bills ................................................. 150,000 Gross income................................................................ 28,325,000
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Note Interest on treasury bills taxed separately...............150,000 Dividend separately taxed ............................................275,000 Interest income separately taxed .............................. 500,000 Employment income ..................................................... 925,000 Taxable income ......................................................... 27,400,000 Less expenses ........................................................... (1,200,000) Chargeable Income.................................................. 26,200,000
Where chargeable income is Shs 26,200,000 for Acul Ocolo as above, tax is calculated as follows; Shs 26,200,000 falls in the top band of the tax rate for individuals in the Third Schedule of the Income Tax Act. Deduct Shs 4,920,000 from Shs 26,200,000 to get Shs 21,280,000 Tax on Shs 4,920,000 is Shs 546,000 Charge to tax Shs 21,280,000 at 30% to get Shs 6,384,000 Add Shs 546,000 to Shs 6,384,000 to get tax payable by Acul Ocolo, which is Shs 6,930,000 Deduct tax withheld at source (PAYE) 84,000 from total tax of 6,930,000, giving Shs 6,846,000 as tax payable Tax determined separately: Treasury bill interest 150,000 15% ...........................22,500 Tax on interest 500,000 15% .....................................75,000 Tax on dividend 275,000 15% .................................... 41,250 Total tax separately paid...............................................138,750 GRAND TOTAL OF TAX ................ (6,846,000 + 138,750)
6,984,750
7.3
Taxation of Small Business Taxpayers (Presumptive Tax)

The concept of small businesses in taxation was developed to accommodate low income taxpayers who would ordinarily find it difficult to prepare
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Part B Income Tax
Income Tax
formal accounts. The preparation of these accounts would usually require engagement of a professional accountant which is costly. In order to address this challenge, the Income Tax Act provides for an arrangement of taxing small businesses based on gross turnover or total sales. This is commonly referred to as presumptive tax.
7.3.1
Who is a Small Business Taxpayer? For income tax purposes, a small business taxpayer is a resident taxpayer whose gross turnover from all businesses owned by such a person in a year is more than five million shillings but does not exceed FIFTY MILLION SHILLINGS.
Taxation Handbook
The term TURNOVER R refers to ones total sales in a year. However, persons in the following business activities are excluded from presumptive tax:
Medical practice Dental practice Architectural service Engineering service Accounting and audit practices Legal practice Any other professional services Public entertainment services Public utility service Construction service
Note: Persons outside the presumptive scheme are required by law to le provisional and nal income tax returns and be assessed to tax based on chargeable income for the year.
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7.3.2
Determination of Sales for a Small Business Taxpayer In order to benefit from the presumptive tax regime, a taxpayer MUST keep records of his or her daily sales which is the basis for determining the tax bracket under which he or she falls.
Daily sales may be recorded as follows:

Date Item Sold Sales (Shs)
1/1/2010 2/1/2010
groceries
5000 10,000
Income Tax
47
Monthly ly Total Tot
15,000
Keeping this kind of record of daily sales would help the trader to ascertain the monthly, quarterly and annual total sales on which tax payable would be based. This record will also assist the trader during inspection by URA staff to determine a correct tax payable.
7.3.3
Return of Gross Turnover In order to determine ermine the tax payable, the presumptive taxpayer ayer is re required to file a provisional return of gross turnover within three months; and a final return of turn the gross turnover of the previous year of Income.
Where such a return is not filed, the tax payable is estimated based on best of judgment of the Commissioner. Key features of the presumptive tax regime 1. The tax is computed on the basis of a GROSS TURNOVER; and is a final tax.
Part B Income Tax
Taxation Handbook
2. No deductions are allowed in respect of any expenditure or losses. 3. No tax credit is allowed to be offset against the final tax except in the following cases: (a) A tax credit arising out of withholding on receipt included in the gross turnover of the taxpayer. (b) Any provisional tax paid against the taxpayers gross turnover during the year of Income.
7.3.5
Computation of the Tax Liability for Small Business Taxpayers The tax payable is calculated and determined basing on the lower of one percent or the prescribed tax amount for turnover above Shs 20 Million as illustrated in the table below. Turnover below Shs 5 million is not subject to tax and turnover from Shs 5 million to 20 Million is taxed at a fixed sum of Shs 100,000.
The entire tax rate structure is as follows:

Gross Turnover Tax Payable
Gross turnover above Shs 5 million and not exceeding Shs 20 million a year. Gross turnover above Shs 20 million but not exceeding Shs 30 million. Gross turnover above Shs 30 million but not exceeding Shs 40 million a year. Gross turnover above Shs 40 million but not exceeding ng Shs 50 million a year.
Shs 100,000 Shs 250,000 or 1% of gross turnover, whichever is lower. Shs 350,000 or 1% of the gross turnover, whichever is lower. Shs 450,000 or 1% of the gross turnover, whichever is lower.
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The tax is payable in four equal installments during the year of Income.
Illustration 7 Take an example of a taxpayer with Shs 22 Million as gross turnover. This taxpayer falls in the Income bracket of Shs 20 30 Million. The tax payable is the lower of 1% of turnover or Shs 250,000. 1% of the Shs 22 million = 220,000; therefore tax payable is Shs 220,000 which Is lower than Shs 250,000. Illustration 8 Take an example of a taxpayer with Shs 28Million as gross turnover This taxpayer also falls in the Income bracket of Shs 20 30 Million. The tax payable is the lower of 1% of turnover or Shs 250,000. 1% of the Shs 28 million = 280,000; therefore tax payable is Shs 250,000 which Is lower than Shs 280,000.
7.3.6
Election (Option) not to be under Presumptive Tax A taxpayer who would ordinarily fall under the presumptive mptive t tax regime may opt out by notifying the Commissioner in writing to be assessed on chargeable Com income. The chargeable income method involves the preparation of financial statements by the taxpayer. Such a taxpayer is required to submit the election notice together with their Annual Income Tax Return for that year by the due date of filing such return of income.
Part B Income Tax
49
Income Tax
Income Tax Registration

Every taxpayer i.e. any person who is in business is expected to register with URA for tax purposes. Registration enables URA to issue the taxpayer with a Tax Identification Number (TIN) which is the key identifier of the taxpayer. In order to be registered, the following are required:
Taxation Handbook
8.1
Resident/ Non-Resident Limited Company

(i) A copy of the certificate of incorporation from the Registrar of companies. (ii) Company Form 7 certified by the registrar of companies. (iii) Completed non-Individual application form. (iv) Completed individual application form for each Director. (v) An introduction letter, if registration is to be done by a person other than directors/subscribers/ rs/ proprietor. (vi) A copy of the Board resolution, where whe the shareholders are different from the Dir Directors. (vii) A copy of the tenancy agreement/ t/ r rent payment receipt. In case of owner-occup upied premises, a letter to that effect should be e attached. a (viii) Requirement of referees including inc their Bankers.
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8.2
Sole Proprietor (Individual)

(i) Copy of Identification documents e.g. Drivers permit, voters card, passport, Employer ID, etc. (ii) A fully completed individual application form
8.3
Partnership
(i) A copy of the certificate of registration from the registrar of companies. (ii) A copy of the Partnership Deed. (iii) Fully completed ted nonindividual nonind application form for the he partnership. part (iv) v) Fully Fu completed individual application form for each partner. (v) A copy of the tenancy agreement/rent payment receipt. In case of owner-occupied premises, a letter to that effect should be attached.
8.4
Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

(i) A copy of the registration certificate from the NGO Board. (ii) Fully completed non-individual application form. (iii) Fully completed individual application forms in (i case NGO has Directors. (iv) A copy of the constitution of the NGO. (v) Fixed place of abode. This could be evidenced for example by copy of the tenancy agreement or rent payment receipt. In case of owneroccupied premises, a letter to that effect should be attached.
Part B Income Tax
51
Income Tax
Returns of Income
A return of income is a declaration made on a prescribed form to the Commissioner on which income earned or a loss made during the year is declared. It is a legal document which must be signed and dated by the taxpayer or by the taxpayers appointed agent and includes a declaration that the return is complete and accurate.
Taxation Handbook
9.1
Who is Eligible to File a Return of Income?

(i) Every tax payer who has chargeable income, other than a resident individual whose chargeable income is below the threshold. (ii) In the case of a resident company, a return should be filed for all global income. The threshold does not apply in this case. (iii) A partnership is also required to file a return of income in its own right as if it pays tax.
9.2
Who is not required to le a Return of Inco come?

(i) A non-resident person whose income e is i derived from sources in Uganda and is subjected s to withholding tax as a final tax. ax. Such income comprises international payme ments or payments to non-resident public entertainers, sports persons, contractors or professionals. pro
(ii) A resident individual whose wh gross income consists exclusively of employment loyment income derived from
52
a single employer and from which tax has been withheld under the PAYE system. (iii) A resident individual whose total chargeable income for the year of income is below the threshold.
9.2.1
Provisional Return A provisional return is a form prescribed by the Commissioner on which estimated tax (provisional tax) is declared. Estimated tax is payable by a person who derives or expects to derive any income during the year of income, ome, oth other than exempt income and which will ill no not be subjected to withholding tax at the source urce as a final tax.
Estimated tax by a company is paid in two installments on or before the last day of the sixth and twelveth months of the year of income. Estimated tax for an individual is payable in four installments on or before the last day of the third, sixth, nineth and twelveth month. A provisional taxpayer payer is required to file a provisional return.
9.2.2
F Failure to File Provisional Returns The Commissioner has powers to estimate a taxpayers gross turnover or chargeable income for a year of income for which the taxpayer has failed to file a provisional return. The estimate is based on the Commissioners best of judgement.
Part B Income Tax
53
Income Tax
9.3
9.3.1
Due date for ling Returns

Provisional Return A provisional return by an individual should be filed within three months after commencement of the year of income. In the case of non-individuals (companies), a provisional return should be filed within six months after commencement of the taxpayers year of income.
Taxation Handbook
Return of Income, i.e. nal. The return of income for both individuals and non-individuals including rental income tax, should be filed within six months after the taxpayers year of income.
Note: It should be remembered that a return of income by individuals and non-individuals is a self assessment return i.e. the return led is deemed to be an assessment of chargeable income issued by the Commissioner on the date the return is led.
9.3.2
Information to be Included in a Return of Income A person in business is required to include in n the t return a statement of income and expenditure, re, assets and liabilities, and any information that comprises com a complete set of financial statements for or a given year of income. A tax computation show owing how the chargeable income and the tax payab yable was arrived at should also be attached.
Where a person (other than the taxpayers employee) is engaged to assist in making g a return, he/she must make a declaration that the financial statements included
54
in the return are prepared on the basis of books of accounts and business records properly maintained, and that they reflect all the transactions.
9.3.3
9.3.4
Failure to File ile a Return R If a liable person fails to furnish a return as required the Commissioner may, in writing, appoint a person to prepare and file the return. This return will be treated as if it were made by the person who should have filed it. Unsatisfactory Return of Income The Commissioner may require any person whose return is not satisfactory to furnish further information. This normally happens pens where the return is incomplete or incorrect rect or lacks la supporting information. La Filing of a Return Late A return is said to be late if it is filed after the due date for filing. A person who fails to file a return by the due date is penalised. The penalty is the greater of 2% of tax assessed or ten currency points (Shs 200,000) per month for the period the return has been outstanding.
9.3.5
9.3.6
Part B Income Tax
55
Income Tax
Cases of Death, Bankruptcy, Cessation, Liquidation, etc. During any year of income, where a taxpayer has died, is bankrupt, wound up, gone into liquidation, is about to leave Uganda indefinitely or the Commissioner considers is appropriate, such a taxpayer may be required to file a return by a specified date.
9.3.7
Extension of Time to File a Return of Income A taxpayer may in writing apply to the Commissioner for an extension of time to file a return. This application has to be made by the due date of filing. The taxpayer must give good reasons to justify the extension for example sickness, absence from Uganda or such other reasonable cause for the extension.
Taxation Handbook
The extension if granted will not exceed 90 days and does not alter the due date for payment of the tax due. Interest will therefore accrue on any outstanding tax. If the taxpayer is dissatisfied with the Commissioners decision on the extension, he may challenge it under objections and appeal procedure.
10 Income Tax Clearance Certicate

A Tax clearance certificate is a document issued by the Commissioner on request by the taxpayer, certifying that the taxpayer is compliant with his tax obligations. It is required in some of the following circums umstances:
Providing transport services for passengers and goods Tendering process with the Government Transferring funds abroad in excess of Shs 50 million
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11 Assessments
An assessment is the ascertainment of chargeable income and the amount of tax payable on it including penal tax. It also includes any decision of the Commissioner which is subject to objection and appeal under the Income Tax Act. For example, if a taxpayer makes a request for extension of time to file a return and the Commissioner rejects the request, the decision is deemed to be an assessment because the taxpayer can n object.
Types of Assessment Assessments include the following: As (i) Self assessment which is made by the taxpayer through the return of income.
(ii) Assessment notice which is made by the Commissioner in any case in which the Commissioner considers necessary such as where no return has been furnished or the return furnished is unsatisfactory sfactory or in cases mentio mentioned in 9.4.3 above. (iii) iii) Any An decision of the Commissioner which is subject to objection and appeal.
Assessment Notice A notice of assessment is a document issued by the Commissioner under (ii) above specifying: (i) the amount of chargeable income of the taxpayer,
(ii) tax payable,

Part B Income Tax
57
Income Tax
(iii) tax paid if any, (iv) the due date of the payment of the tax, (v) the time, place, and manner of objecting to the assessment.
12 Objections and Appeals under Income Tax

Taxation Handbook
12.1
Objections
An objection is a communication in writing from a taxpayer to the Commissioner expressing dissatisfaction with an assessment issued. An objection is valid if it satisfies the following legal requirements: (i) It is made in writing within 45 days of receipt of notice of assessment. (ii) It precisely states the grounds upon which the objection is based.
Late Objection In case of a late objection, a written application tion to the Commissioner seeking an extension of f th the time for lodging the objection must be made, , stating s the grounds for the lateness.
Where an application to lodge a late e objection o has been made, the Commissioner may grant gra the extension. In the case where the Commission ioner refuses to grant an extension for lodging an obje bjection, the taxpayer may also appeal to the Tribunal unal to review the objection decision.
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12.2
Treatment of an Objection (Objection Decision)

The Commissioners response to the taxpayers notice of objection is referred to as an objection decision. In the decision, the Commissioner may: (a) Allow the objection in whole or in part and amend the assessment accordingly. (b) Reject the objection and confirm the assessment. The Commissioner shall make the objection decision within 90 days from m date of receiving the objection from the taxpayer. axpayer. Where the Commissioner does not respond ond within w 90 days, the taxpayer may, elect in writing to the Commissioner to treat the objection as wri having been allowed. Where the objection has been lodged, 30% of the tax assessed or that part of tax not in dispute, whichever is greater, is payable pending the final resolution of the objection.
Income Tax
12.3
Appeal
An appeal arises where a taxpayer is dissatisfied with the e objection object decision made by the Commissioner. The first line of appeal is to request for a review by the Tax Appeals Tribunal, then to the High Court and; to the Court of Appeal. In some instances, an appeal may be made to the High Court without going to the Tax Appeals Tribunal on matters of law.
Part B Income Tax
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13 Withholding Tax System

The Income Tax Act Cap 340 specifies the persons who are required to withhold the tax as well as those upon whom the tax should be imposed, depending on the nature of the transaction. This tax is deducted at source by a withholding agent upon making payment to another person. A withholding agent is the person making payment and obliged to withhold tax; and the recipient of the payment is the payee. This is a system of collecting tax by a withholding agent on a specified range of payments. These include: (i) Employment income non-resident Contractors or (ii) International payments (iii) Payments to professionals (v)
Taxation Handbook
(iv) Payments on dividends Payment for Goods and services by Governm rnment, Government institutions and designated des withholding agents
(vi) Payments on professional fees (vii) Payment on imports

13.1
Withholding Tax on Employ oyment Income

This tax is deducted by the employer from the employment income of every liable employee on a
60
monthly basis under the PAYE system and is covered under Part 4.2 of this handbook.
13.2
Withholding Tax on International Payments

Tax is imposed on every non-resident person who derives any dividend, interest, royalty, natural resource payment or management charge from sources in Uganda. The tax is withheld by the payer at the rate of 15% on the gross amount before payment. However, interest paid outside Uganda by a resident person to a non-reside on-resident financial institution in respect of a loan oan that th was secured for purposes of a business in Uganda Ug is exempt from withholding tax.
Withholding tax on payments to foreign entertainers and sports persons Withholding tax at 15% is also due on payments to non-resident public/private entertainers and sports persons who derive income from any performance in Uganda. The obligation to withhold the tax is placed with the person making the pay payment e.g. g p promoter, o agent, or such ch similar person. p
Income Tax
13.3
W Withholding Tax on Payments to non-resident Contractors or Professionals

This tax is imposed on every non-resident person deriving income under a Ugandan source service contract. A Ugandan source service contract is a contract under which the principle purpose is the performance of services which gives rise to income
Part B Income Tax
61
sourced in Uganda, and any goods supplied under the contract are only incidental to the purpose. A Ugandan-sourced service contract excludes an employment contract. The tax is charged at 15% of the gross amount of payment and the person making the payment should withhold the relevant tax before effecting payment.
Non-resident service Contracts Any person who enters into any service contract with a non-resident is required to notify the Commissioner of the nature and duration of the service contract, and disclose the particulars of the non-resident to whom the payment is to be made, as well as the full contract value.
Taxation Handbook
Basing on this information, the Commissioner may require the payer to withhold tax at a rate specified by the Commissioner.
13.4
Withholding Tax on Interest

A resident person who pays interest to anoth other resident person is required to withhold tax at t 15% 15 of the gross amount of the interest paid. With Withholding tax is, however, not applicable where inter terest is:
Paid by a natural person (individual). Paid to a nancial institution. Paid by a company to an associated company. Exempt from tax in the hands of the recipient.
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Where tax is withheld on payment of interest by a financial institution to an individual, the tax withheld is a final tax on the income.
13.5
Withholding Tax on Dividends

A resident company which pays a dividend to a resident shareholder is required to withhold tax at 15% of the gross amount of the dividend paid, except where the dividend income is exempt from tax in the hands of the shareholder. Where the shareholder is a natural person (resident t individual), the tax withheld on such dividend nd inco income is final and not refundable. However, ver, w where the dividend is paid by a company listed on the stock exchange to a resident share holder, the rate is 10% on the gross amount.
13.6
Withholding Tax on Goods and Services

Where the Government of Uganda, a government institution, a local authority, a company in which government has interest in or any person designated in a notice issued by the Minister of Finance pays amounts in aggregate ate exceeding Shs 1,000,000 to any person in n Uganda Ugand for the supply of goods, materials of any kind or services, the payer is required to withhold 6% of the gross amount. The threshold of Shs 1,000,000 is in respect of the total contract value, implying that separate supplies which constitute one contract are subject to the 6% withholding tax regardless of the fact that the amount paid per a single supply or transaction is less than the threshold value.
Part B Income Tax
63
Income Tax
This provision does not apply to sales by insurance Brokers/Agents i.e. on payment of insurance premiums. The Income Tax (Designation of Payers) Notices 2006 and 2007, designates payers who are required to withhold 6% tax on payment for goods and services, effective 1st day of July, 2006.
Note: It is important to remember that not everyone can withhold tax on payment for goods and services.
Taxation Handbook
13.7
Withholding Tax on Professional Fees

With effect from 01 July 2001, a resident person who pays management or professional fees to a resident professional is required to withhold tax at 6% of the gross amount of payment. Excluded from this provision are professionals whom the Commissioner is satisfied have regularly complied with the obligations imposed by the Income Tax Act, and those professionals ordinarily engaged as payroll employees.
13.8
Withholding Tax on Imports

Every person who imports goods into Uganda is liable l to pay withholding tax at 6% based on Custom oms Value in Uganda, at the time of importation. This his provision, however, does not apply to the following ing categories of imports/persons: (i) Petroleum or petroleum products including furnace oil other than Lub ubricants, cosmetics and fabrics or yarn manufac factured out of petroleum products.
(ii) Plant and machine nery

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(iii) Human and animal drugs. (iv) Scholastic materials. (v) Imports of exempt organisations/persons. (vi) Raw materials imported by a manufacturer solely for generating finished products. (vii) A supplier or importer who is exempted from tax. (viii) A supplier or importer who the Commissioner is satisfied has regularly complied with the Income tax obligations.
13.9
Accountability tability for Withholding Tax

The withholding w agent is required by the Income Tax Act to pay to URA the tax withheld (or that should have been withheld), within 15 days after the end of the month in which the payment was made. In the case of a person about to leave Uganda, the tax should be withheld and paid before the payee leaves. The agent is further required to maintain and avail for inspection by URA, records of all p payments y to the payee(s) and the corresponding tax withheld for five years s after the end of the year of income to which such records relate. suc Except where it is a final tax, tax withheld is a credit against the tax assessed on the payee for the year of income in which the payment is made. Upon withholding the tax, the withholding agent is required to issue a withholding tax credit certificate to the payee; and then pay the tax to URA.
Part B Income Tax
65
Income Tax
13.10
Failure to Withhold and/or Remit the Tax

A withholding agent who fails to withhold tax is personally liable to pay to URA the tax which has not been withheld and/or remitted. The agent, however, is entitled to recover the amount from the payee thereafter. URA is mandated to recover the tax from the agent as though it were tax due from such agent together with the accrued interest.
Taxation Handbook
66
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Part C
Part C Value Added Tax (VAT)
67

1 Background
Value Added Tax (VAT) is an indirect tax that is paid by a person who consumes or imports goods and/or services in Uganda. The Tax is charged on the value added at different stages of production or supply of goods and services. VAT was introduced d in Uganda in July 1996 to replace Sales Tax and nd Com Commercial Transactions Levy (CTL). VAT is administered ad under the Value Added Tax (VAT) Act Cap 349, Laws of Uganda. (VA
2
2.1

Output Tax
This is the VAT a taxable person charges upon making taxable supplies i.e. tax charged upon selling taxable goods and services.
2.2
Input Tax ax
Thi is the VAT a taxable person is charged on This taxable purchases and expenses incurred for business purposes. The purchases could be from local sources or imported.
2.3
Taxable Supply
This is a supply of goods and/or services other than an exempt supply, by a taxable person for a consideration.
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A Taxable supply is charged to VAT at either zero rate or standard rate.

2.4
Taxable Person
This is a person who is either registered for VAT or one who is not yet registered but is required to be registered. Such person may be any of the following: an individual, partnership, company, trust, Government as well as public or local authority e.g. town council.
2.5
Taxable Value
This is the total consideration or price for a particular supply. This could be in money or in kind. It is the tax base upon which the VAT rate is applied to compute VAT.
Taxation Handbook
2.6
Consideration
This is the total amount paid or payable in money or in kind for a supply of goods or services.
2.7
Exempt Supply
This is a non-taxable supply of goods or services tha that does not attract VAT i.e. neither at zero rate nor no at standard rate. These supplies are specified ed in the Second Schedule of the VAT Act Cap 349. 9.
2.8
Zero-rated Supply
This is a taxable supply of good ods or services that attracts VAT at 0%. These supp upplies are specified in the Third Schedule of the VAT AT Act Cap 349.
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2.9
Standard-rated Supply
This is a taxable supply of goods or services that attract VAT at a value above zero rate. The current rate is 18% of the taxable amount. These are supplies that are neither exempt nor zero rated.
2.10
Exempt Import
An import of goods and services is an exempt import if the goods are either exempt from customs duty under the Fifth Schedule of the East African Community Customs Managemen nagement Act (EAC-CMA), or would be exempt pt had they been supplied locally in Uganda .i.e. as specified spe under Second schedule of the VAT Act Cap 349.
Scope of VAT
VAT is chargeable on both local and imported taxable supplies (goods or services). The three major categories of supplies where VAT is applied are: (i) Taxabl Taxable supply of goods or services made by a taxable person within Uganda. The person liable to tax is the taxable person making the supply. (ii) Import of goods other than those classified by the VAT Act as exempt. The person liable to tax is the person making the importation. (iii) Imported services. The person liable is the receiver of the imported service.
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VAT Registration
VAT registration is the process of getting eligible persons put or recorded on the VAT Register.
4.1
4.1.1
Key Terms under Registration

VAT Threshold This refers to the minimum level of taxable turnover above which a person is required to register for VAT. The current annual threshold is Shs 50 million. However for registration purposes, this is determined on a quarterly basis. i.e. it is Shs 12.5 million in any three consecutive calendar months. Turnover This is the total value of taxable sales of both goods and services.
Taxation Handbook
4.1.2
4.2
4.2.1
Persons Required / Eligible to Register for VAT

Persons Required to Register for VAT (Compulsory ory Registration) There are two categories of persons that are required req to register for VAT under the VAT Act. Thes hese are:
Persons who make taxable supplies s (turnover) in excess of 12.5 million in any 3 conse nsecutive calendar months. Public bodies that engage in business activities. These include Government nt Ministries, departments, parastatals, town councils and District
72
Administrations among others. These bodies should apply for registration on the date they start dealing in business activities. The business activities include hall hire, tendering of services, markets, street parking, toilet management services, street bill board adverts and disposal of assets, among others.
4.2.2
4.2.3
General Requirements for VAT Registration (i) The applicant must have a fixed place of abode or business.
(ii) The applicant should be able to keep proper books of accounts. (iii) The applicant should d be able to submit re regular and reliable ble tax returns. re (iv) The T applicant should be a fit and a proper person in the opinion of the Commissioner General.
4.3
4.3.1
VAT Registration Processes

Application for Registration (a) Application under compulsory basis
Historical test: A Person who makes taxable supplies that exceed the VAT threshold is required
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Persons Eligible to Register for VAT (Voluntary Registration) Persons whose taxable turnover is below the VAT threshold are e eligible eligibl to register if they wish to do so provided ovided they meet the requirements specified in 4.2.3. 4.2.3
to register for VAT. The person shall apply to register within 20 days after a period of three consecutive calendar months if in that period the persons taxable supplies exceeded a quarter of the annual threshold (currently Shs 12.5 million). For example, if ones taxable sales in the months of January to March 2011 exceed Shs 12.5 million, that person must apply for registration in the first 20 days of April 2011. Future test: Where a person expects to make taxable supplies of more than a quarter of the annual threshold (Shs 12.5 million) in the next three months, that person is required to apply for registration at the beginning of that period of the projected three consecutive calendar months. This is especially common with contractual jobs where one would be certain of what to earn and when. For example if at the beginning of January one projects that he/she will make taxable sales over shs,12,500,000 in the next three months s (from January to March 2011), then that perso rson is required to apply for registration on 1st January Jan 2011. Furthermore, in case the Commissio sioner General finds reasonable grounds to believe ve that t the person is required to apply to registrati ation but has failed to register, he/she shall regist gister such person and registration shall take effect ect as he/she deems.
Taxation Handbook
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(b) Compulsory registration for Public Bodies Public Bodies should apply for registration on the date they start engaging in any business activity. (c) Application under Voluntary Registration The date of application is as per the taxpayers choice.
4.3.2
4.3.3
Effective date of registration In the case of compulsory registration, the effective date of registration is the first day of the month following the month in which the application was required to be made. For instance, if due date to apply for registration fell in the month of April 2011, effective date of registration ation would be 1st May 201 2011.
In the case of voluntary v registration, the effective date of registration reg is the first day of the month following the month in which the application was made. For instance, if the application was in the month of January, 2011, effective date of registration would be 1st Feb. 2011.
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Inspection / Notification This exercise is conducted to confirm the correctness of the information provided ovided in the application form by the taxpayer. yer. It is on the basis of the findings that the decision ecision whether or not to register that person is made and the taxpayer notified accordingly.
4.4
VAT Registration Entitlements

Upon being registered the person will be entitled to Input tax credit on both capital goods and trading stock at hand on the effective date of registration provided they were purchased not more than six months prior to effective date of registration.
4.5
Penalty for late registration

A person who fails to apply for registration by the due date is liable to a penalty of double the tax due from the date the person ought to have been registered to when he is registered.
Taxation Handbook
4.6
Determination of when to apply for Registration (under compulsory registration)

Illustration 1 A dry cleaning company made the following sales for the period December 2006 to June 2007 December 2006 ...........................................................3,500,000 January 2007 ................................................................5,000,000 February 2007 .............................................................3,000,000 March 2007 ..... 7,340,000 (includes 1,670,000 exempt supply) April 2007 .....................................................................6,000,000 May 2007 ...................................................................... 7,500,000 June 2007 ...................................................................... 9,300,000
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Period Exempt Taxable Sales Sales

Step IV (from taxable sales, using the tax fraction)
Total Sales
VAT
Turnover for Three month registration Turnover purposes G Notes
D= [B-C] B C A Dec 6 3,500,000 3,500,000 Jan 07 5,000,000 J 5,000,000 Feb07 3,000,000 3,000,000 Mar 07 7,340,000 1,670,000 5,670,000 Apr p 07 6,000,000 6,000,000 May y 07 7,500,000 7,500,000 7, Jun 07 9,300,000 J 9, ,300,000 E=D 18/118 533,898 762,712 457,627 864,915 915,254 1,144,068 1,418,644 F=D-E 2,966,10 102 4,237,28 88 2,542,373 3 4,805,085 5 5,084,746 6,355,932 7,881,356
9,745,763 11,584,746 12,432,204 16,245,763
20/6/07 (Apply) ( pp y)
Step I (Column C & D)
Step IV (Column G)
Add the turnover for the three consecutive months until the Shs 12.5 million three month threshold is surpassed e.g.: Shs 11,584,746 = (4,237,288 + 2,542,373 + 4,805,085)
Exclude exempt sales.
Step II (Column E) Step V
Compute VAT on taxable sale using the tax fraction.
Step III (Column F)
Application to register is due within twenty days of the preceding month after attainment of the Shs 12.5 million three month threshold, i.e. 20th June 2007.
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Deduct VAT from taxable sales.
4.7
Deregistration
This is the process of removing or cancelling a registered person from the VAT register.
4.7.1
Taxation Handbook
Conditions for deregistration (i) When one ceases to make taxable supplies. This may occur when one changes the nature of business from taxable to exempt supplies or through legal re-categorisation of supplies, from taxable to exempt e.g. road construction works changed from being taxable to exempt effective 1st July 2004. It can also be through winding up of business.
(ii) Decline in turnover. This is a two-way test involving:
Taxable turnover excluding VAT in the last 3 months no longer exceeds 25% of the threshold (currently Shs 12.5 million); and Taxable turnover excluding VAT in the last 12 months no longer exceeds 75% of the threshold (currently Shs 37.5 million).
(iii) In the case of a taxpayer registered volu oluntarily, deregistration can only be effected after aft 2 years from the date of registration.
4.7.2
Process of Deregistration (a) Application for deregistrati ation arises in two ways:
(i)
Upon application on in writing by the taxpayer.
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(ii) On the Commissioner General initiative if (s)he is satisfied that the taxpayer was not required to apply for registration. This happens even if the taxpayer does not apply for it. (b) The Commissioner General may initiate deregistration under the following circumstances: (i) When the taxpayer has no fixed place of abode or business premises. (ii) The taxpayer payer has no proper accounting/ business usiness records for the business carried on. (iii) The taxpayer does not submit regular and reliable tax returns. (iv) The taxpayer is not fit and proper in the opinion of the Commissioner General.
4.7.3
Effective date of deregistration Cancellation of registration takes effect at the end of the period (month) in which the de-registration decision is made e.g. g. if the decision to deregister is on 20th March arch 2010 2010, deregistration will be effective on 31st st Ma March 2010. Obligations at date of Deregistration Where input tax has been claimed on goods in stock, including capital goods, the deregistered person is liable to VAT on the market value of such goods still in stock.
4.7.4
79
Taxation Handbook
Illustration 2 Kiyembe Co. Ltd. was compulsorily registered six years back. On June 15, 2007 they applied for deregistration from VAT. A visit was made by URA and the following sales were established for the last 12 months. May 2007 .................................................................. 2,500,000 April 2007 .................................................................. 4,100,000 March 2007 ...............................................................4,400,000 February 2007 .......................................................... 5,670,000 January 2007 .............................................................3,000,000 December 2006 ...................................................... 5,000,000 November 2006 .......................................................3,500,000 October 2006 .......................................................... 3,950,000 September 2006 ......................................................4,200,000 August 2006 ..............................................................3,000,000 July 2006 ....................................................................2,550,000 June 2006 ...................................................................1,500,000 Solution 1. Test the last three months sales = 2,500,000 + 4,100,000 + 4,400,000 = Shs 11,000,000 = passes the condition of deregistration i.e. sales are less than Shs 12.5 million. 2. Test the total sales for the twelve months = Shs 43,370,000 (it is 86% of Shs 50 million. This does not pass the condition of deregistration i.e. it would pass if sales were less than 75% of the Shs 50 million, which is Shs 37,500,000.
Therefore Kiyembe Co. Ltd does s not n qualify to be deregistered. One qualifies only y when w both conditions are met. In the above illustratio tion, only one was met.
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5
5.1
Supply of Goods and Services

Supply of Goods
This includes the following: (a) An arrangement where the owner parts or would part with the possession of the goods. It includes an agreement of sale or purchase i.e. irrespective of whether goods have changed hands or not. (b) Supply of electrical, thermal mal energy, heating, gas, refrigeration, air conditioning condit or water. (c) Goods ods put to own use.
5.2
Supply of Services Supp

This refers to supply of anything which is not supply of a good or money. It includes the following: (a) Performance of services for another person, for example, accounting, legal, architectural designing, and other services performed by other professionals, consultants, brokers and agents. (b) Making available ble any facility or advantage, for instance nce facilities facili for hire (halls, tents, gardens, etc ) etc.) (c) The toleration of any situation, or the refraining from the doing of anything. For example, surrender of any rights to stay (in/at), use or enjoy any facility or moment.
Exception: Supply of services by an employee to an employer by reason of employment is not a supply of services for VAT purposes.
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5.3
Supply by an Agent
There are two types of agents: (a) Agents who are dependent on the principal. These are agents whose actions or operations are dictated by the principal. These are mainly commission earners. Supplies (goods or services) made by these agents are made by or on behalf of the principal (one who is dependent on the principal), and therefore the obligation to account for the tax is on the principal and not the agent. However, agency services provided by the agent to the principal are attributed to the agent. That is, the agent will not be held accountable for goods or services sold on behalf of the principal but will be held accountable for commission earned from the principal for the agency services. (b) Agents who are independent of the principal. These are persons who are entrusted with supplying goods or services of another person on but whose decisions are not dictated by the principal. pri These usually benefit through discount unts and not commission.
Taxation Handbook
5.4
Place of Supply
For a supply of goods to attract ct VAT, V the supply must be made in Uganda. In the case of goods, the supply takes place where the goods are delivered or r made available in Uganda b by
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the supplier or where it involves transportation, the goods are in Uganda when transportation commences in Uganda if the businesses supplier is in Uganda. In the case of services, the supply takes place where the services are rendered.
Note: However the following should be observed: (i) The supply of services is physically performed in Uganda. (ii) The supply of services is in connection with unmovable property. (iii) The supply of services are radio, television broadcasting services received at an address in Uganda (iv) The supply of electronic services in Uganda (v) Transfer, assignment or grant of a right to use a copyright,patent,trademark right in Uganda. (vi) Telecommunication Services initiated by a person in Uganda but not a supplier of telecommunication services for a person roaming temporarily in Uganda.
5.5
Time of Supply
This refers to the date on which a supply pp y is deemed to have taken en place. The purpose of time of supply is to o guide in determining the tax point. Tax point determines the VAT period in which output tax det should be accounted for and credit for input tax be taken into consideration. There are different provisions for the different circumstances as detailed below.
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No.
Nature of supply
Time of supply
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Goods/Services applied Date on which goods or services are to own use. rst applied to own use Goods: Date when ownership passes to the recipient. Supplies by way of gifts. Services: Date when the performance of services is completed. In case of rental The earlier of the following: agreements or periodic Date when payment is due. payments, e.g. rent and Receipt of the payment for each monthly billed utilities. successive payment. Date when one receives cash to account for output or date when Supply under cash basis. one pays cash to account for input tax credit. The earlier of the following: Invoice date. Ordinary (usual) supply. Payment date. Delivery date. For goods where import duty is payable, time of supply is the date when the duty is payable. Import of goods. Where duty is not applicable, time of supply is the date when goods enter into the country.
Taxation Handbook
5.6
Mixed Supplies
Under the VAT regime, supplie lies are categorised as either goods or services. There The are times when a supply of a good involves a supply s of a service; or vice versa. This type of supply ply where one is incidental to the other is referred to o as a a mixed supply.
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Illustration Uganda Clays Uganda clays supplies goods i.e. the clay tiles. But after one buys the clay tiles, Uganda Clays Ltd could offer to transport for the customer at subsidised price quoted on the same invoice. The supply of transport service would be incidental to supply goods (the tiles).
Calculation of VAT
Computation of VAT occurs at two levels: (a) VAT on a transaction on i.e. a sale or a purchase (b) VAT payable yable or claimable by the taxpayer other way put p is VAT collectable or refundable by URA.
6.1
6.1.1
Key terms in VAT Computations

Tax rate and Fraction Tax rate is the percentage that is applied to the consideration for a transaction or taxable value, so as to determine the VAT amount. For example: if the consideration or taxable value is Shs 20, 000 and the VAT rate is 18% (18/100), 100), then VAT = 20,000 x18/100 = Shs 3,600 600
The Tax fraction refers to the ratio used to determine the amount of VAT where the consideration is inclusive of VAT. The fraction is given by the formula: r r + 100 where r is the VAT rate.
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Illustration If the rate of tax (r) = 18% then the tax fraction = 18/(18+100) = 18/118. For example if the consideration (VAT inclusive) is Shs 20,000, then VAT = 20,000 18/118 = Shs 3051.
6.1.2
Computation of VAT on a Transaction VAT = Taxable value VAT Rate (where taxable value excludes VAT)
Or
Taxation Handbook
VAT = taxable value VAT ratio (where the amount is VAT inclusive). See Illustrations in 6.1.1 above.
6.1.3
Computation of VAT Payable or Refundable VAT = output tax input tax
Where output tax is greater than input tax, the taxpayer pays the difference. Where input tax is greater than the output tax, the taxpayer claims the difference.
Illustration (a) If output tax = 100,000 and input tax = 77,000 then VAT payable = 100,000 77,000 = 23,000 (b) If output tax = 100,000 and input tax = 140,000 then VAT claimable = 140,000 100,000 = 40,000
6.1.4
Conditions for granting Input Ta Tax Credit To claim input tax, there sho hould be documentary evidence to show:
(i)
For local purchases/expenses, /expenses, there should be an original tax invoice ice.
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(ii) For imports, there should be the customs bill of entry, URA tax receipt or other forms of evidence for proof of payment, airway bill/bill of lading and other documents prescribed under the Customs Management Act. (iii) The purchases (Inputs) must be for business purposes.
Exception: Input tax credit may be allowed where the failure to acquire a tax invoice is not the fault of the taxpayer and the amount claimed is correct. Also if the original tax invoice is lost, one can use a certied copy from the supplier.
6.2
Apportio portionment of Input Tax Credit

For a taxable person that deals in both taxable and non-taxable supplies, input tax credit is apportioned and claim only that part or percentage that relates to taxable supplies/sales using the formula: Input tax credit = A B/C Where: x in the period. A is the total input tax B is the he total taxable t sales in the period. C is total sales (both taxable + exempt).
6.2.1
Standard Alternative Method (SAM) Another method of apportionment called SAM is used when disadvantaged by the above method. It is used when a taxable person obtains an approval from
87
URA upon application. Under this method, input tax credit is determined as follows: (i) Claim all input tax that is directly attributable to taxable supplies. (ii) Disallow all input tax that is directly attributable to exempt supplies. (iii) Apportion all input tax that is not directly attributable to either taxable or exempt supplies using the above formula A B/C.
6.3
Non-Allowable Input Tax Credit

The general rule is that input tax incurred for business purposes should be allowed or credited to the taxpayer. However, the VAT Act disallows some input tax credits. The following input tax credit is not allowed though incurred in respect to business activities. (a) Passenger automobiles. VAT incurred on purchase or importation of passenger automobiles is not credited to the taxpayer. This includes des purchase of spare parts, repairs and maintenan nance of Passenger automobiles.
Exception: Input tax is allowed for purchase of passenger vehicles as stock for resale in a business activity and carrying on the business of tour operations.
Taxation Handbook
(b) Entertainment. VAT incurred ed on entertainment is not allowed. Entertainm nment includes food, drinks, tobacco, accomm mmodation, amusement, recreation, or any other er form of hospitality.
88
Exception: (i) This can be allowed if the taxpayer is in the business of providing entertainment itself. (ii) It can also be allowed if supplies were meals or refreshments to the taxpayers employees in premises operated by the taxpayer or on behalf of the taxpayer solely for the benet of the taxpayers employees.
(c) Telephone services. Ten per cent (10%) of input tax on telephone services is not allowed.
Exception: If at the hotel a client was charged output VAT for using the telephone, the corresponding input tax charged to the hotel owner is allowed.
6.4
Computa mputation of Tax Payable

Illustration 3 Mukunzi Ltd deals in a variety of goods, both taxable and exempt. In the month of July 2007, it operated as follows: Sales: All VAT inclusive where applicable. (i) Made standard rated sales worth Shs 236,000,000. (ii) Made exempt sales worth Shs 350,000,000 (iii) Made zero rated sales worth Shs 500,000,000 Purchases and costs: all exclusive of VAT (i) Purchase of 1,000 bags of sugar at Shs 50,000 per bag. (ii) Rent for the month of Shs 40,000,000 (iii) 200 bags of different fruits all at Shs 250,000,000. (iv) 1,000 cans of milk from Fresh Foods U Ltd at Shs 200,000,000 (v) 20 new refrigerators at Shs 1,500,000 each; of which 10 were used to preserve milk, the balance for fresh fruit salads. (vi) Staff salaries for the month worth Shs 110,000,000. (vii) Electricity bill was Shs 5,000,000.
89
Taxation Handbook
90
Rated
Amount Inclusive
Amount Exc. VAT c = b 100/118 Remarks Column: c Output Tax d= b 18/118 or d = c 18% Column: d Column: e
Column: a
Column: b
350,000,000 500,000,000 200,000,000 1,050,000,000 36,000,000 36,000,000
350,000,000 500,000,000
0 0
Exempt Taxable Taxable Taxable + Exempt
Exempt Zero-rated Standard rated Total
236,000,000
1,086,000,000
Solution Step 1: Determination of output tax,
total al sales s and total taxable sales
C B = 500,000,000 + 200,000,000 = 700,000,000 C = 350,000,000 + 500,000,000 + 200,000,000 = 1,050,000,000
Step 2(a): Determination of input tax using normal apportionment method

Excl. Value Input Tax d=c 18/100 Column: d Fully Full Not full attributable Attributable Attributable to to taxable Exempt taxable on exempt Column: e Column: f Column: g
Item
Note
Column: a
Column: v
Column: c
Sugar Rent Fruits 2,700,000 2 2,700,000
7,200,000 900,000 8,100,000
Taxable 50, 0,000,000 9,000,000 9,000,00 00 Taxable 40,0 0 00,000 7,200,000 Exempt 250,0 0 00,000 ZeroMilk 200,00 0 0,000 rated Refrigerators Taxable 30,000 0,000 5,400,000 2,700,000 Staff salaries Exempt 110,000 0,000 Electricity Taxable 5,000,0 0 00 900,000 Total 22,500,000 11,700,000
A = 9,000,000 + 7,200,000 + 5,400,000 + 900,000 = 22,500,000 22,500,000 700,000,000 1,050,000,000 = 15,000,000=
Input tax allowed = A B/C =
91
Step 2(b): Determination of input tax using SAM

(i) Input tax fully attributable to taxable sales (all allowed) = 9,000,000 + 2,700,000 = 11,700,000. (ii) Input tax fully attributable to exempt sales (all disallowed) = 2,700,000. (iii) Input tax attributable to both exempt and taxable (apportionable). (iv) Input tax apportionment = A = 8,100,000 B = 700,000,000 C = 1,050,000,000 = 5,400,000 1,050,000,000 Total input tax allowed = 11,700,000 + 5,400,000 = 17,100,000 A B/C = 8,100,000 700,000,000
Taxation Handbook
Step 3(a): Determination of VAT payable using normal

method
VAT payable
= Output tax Input tax = 36,000,000 15,000,000 = 21,000,000
Step 3(b): Determination of VAT payable using SA SAM

VAT payable = 36,000,000 - 17,100,000 = 18,900,000
7 Tax Invoice
This is a document that is required ed to be issued by a taxable person upon making a taxable ta supply. A tax invoice must include the follow owing: (a) The words tax invoice ce written in a prominent place.
92
(b) The commercial name, address, place of business, and the tax identification number of the taxable person making the supply. (c) The commercial name, address, place of business, and the tax identification number of the recipient of the taxable supply. (d) The individualised serial number and the date on which the tax invoice is issued. (e) A description of the goods or services supplied and the date on which the supply is made. (f) The quantity y or volume volum of the goods or services supplied. ied. (g) g) The Th rate of tax for each category of goods and services described in the invoice. (h) Either (i) The total amount of the tax charged, the consideration for the supply exclusive of tax and the consideration inclusive of tax; or (ii) Where the amount of tax charged is calculated under section 24 (2), the consideration for the supply, a statement that it includes a charge in respect o of the tax and the rate at which the tax was charged.
8
8.1
VAT Return and Payment of Tax

VAT Return
A VAT return is a declaration of tax payable or claimable on a form prescribed by the Commissioner General for a tax period.
93
8.1.1
Due Date for submitting a VAT return A return should be filed within fifteen days after the end of a tax period. For example a VAT return in respect of March 2010 should be submitted within 15 days after 31st March, 2010 i.e. by the 15th of April, 2010. Tax Period A tax period is one calendar month. Penalty for late submission of a VAT return Where a taxable person fails to submit a return by the due date, is liable to a penalty whichever is greater of the following:
8.1.2
8.1.3
Taxation Handbook
(a) Shs 200,000 or (b) 2% per month compounded of the amount on the return, for the period the return is outstanding.
8.2
Payment of Tax
Tax is supposed to be paid by taxpayers as it falls due. The due date for paying tax is as follows: (a) In case of a taxable supply by a taxable person son in respect of the tax period, the due date is th the date the return for the tax period must be lodg odged. (b) In the case of an assessment issued; th the due date is the date specified in the notice of f assessment. a (c) In any other case, the due dat date is the date the taxable transaction occurs s e.g. e VAT on services supplied by international l entertainers. e
94
VAT Assessments
Assessments are raised by the Commissioner General or a representative of the Commissioner General under the following circumstances: (i) When a taxable person fails to lodge returns. (ii) When the Commissioner General is not satisfied with the returns lodged. (iii) When there are grounds to believe that a p person will become liable able to pay tax ta but is likely not to pay the he tax d due.
9.1
Basis asis for fo raising an Assessment

An assessment is based on the taxpayers records and information about his business. In the circumstance where proper records are not available the assessment will be estimated based on best of judgement.
9.2
Notice of Assessment
Upon ascertaining outstanding tax, a notice of assessment is issued to o the taxpayer specifying t the following elements: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) The T tax payable, The date the tax is due and payable An explanation of the tax assessed The time, place and manner of objecting to the assessment.
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10 Objections and Appeals

10.1
Objections to URA assessment

A Person who is dissatisfied with an assessment may object to the assessment within 45 days after the receipt of the assessment notice. The period of objection may be extended by the Commissioner General when good cause is shown on application. An objection should be in writing stipulating the grounds for the objection.
Taxation Handbook
10.1.1
Objection Decision An objection decision is a response given by the Commissioner General in respect of the taxpayers objection. The Commissioner General may allow the objection in full or part; and amend the assessment accordingly; or may reject the objection and confirm the assessment.
A decision must be given within 30 days from the date of receipt of the objection or else the taxpaye ayer may elect to deem the Commissioner General to have h allowed the objection.
10.2
Appeals to the Tax Appeals Tribunal al

Where the taxpayer is dissatisfied with wit the objection decision, he/she may appeal to o the Tax Appeals Tribunal within 30 days from m the th date of receipt of the Commissioner Generals objection ob decision.
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Conditions for Appealing to TAT (i) The taxpayer is required to pay the greater of tax not in dispute or 30% of the tax in dispute.
(ii) The taxpayer is required to serve a copy of the appeal to the Commissioner General.
10.3
Appeal to the High Court

Any party (URA or taxpayer) that is dissatisfied with the decision of the Tax Appeals Tribunal may appeal to the High Court within 30 days from the date of receipt of the decision of TAT.
An Appeal to the H High Court is only on the question of law. w. The burden of proof lies with the appellant. Structure of Appeal System.
High Court Tax Appeals Tribunal URA Commissioner General
Objects
Taxpayer
11 VAT Refund
A VAT refund occurs in two ways: (a) By cash (b) By an offset
97
Currently a cash refund is applied when the amount claimable is greater than Shs 5million or where the taxpayer deals in mostly zero rated supplies.
11.1
Circumstances under which VAT is refundable

(a) When input tax is greater than output tax, for instance if for a given period the input tax is Shs 500,000 and output tax is Shs 300,000, then the difference of Shs 200,000 would be refunded to the taxpayer. (b) When a taxpayer pays more than what was supposed to be paid, the excess is refunded. For example if one pays Shs 1,000,000 and it is discovered that the true tax was supposed to be Shs 900,000, then the excess of Shs 100,000 is refunded. (c) When there is a proven bad debt. A bad debt for VAT refund considers the following:
Taxation Handbook
Should have been outstanding for a period of at least

two years. There should be proof that all necessary steps were taken to recover the money to no avail.
(d) When one loses the stock through fire, fir burglary and any other proven methods. (e) VAT refund to privileged persons. pe Privileged persons claim back VAT incu curred on all expenses they make in Uganda. Priv rivileged persons include Diplomats, Diplomatic c missions e.g. embassies and entities listed in the first schedule of the VAT Act. These must show how proof of VAT paid and eac each
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individual expenditure should be exceeding Shs 50,000. The refund in case of monthly return, is paid within thirty (30) days beyond which interest accrues.
12 Administrative Issues
12.1
Records
The VAT Act and the VAT regulations define the records that a VAT registered ered person must keep. A Taxpayer is expected pected to k keep records that explain the taxpayer r busin business transactions. These records should be e kept for a minimum of six years. These include: (i) All business correspondences. (ii) Orders and delivery notes. (iii) Appointment and job books/cards. (iv) Annual accounts including trading accounts, profit and loss accounts and balance sheet. (v) Bank statement statements and paying in records. (vi) Original O tax invoices including simplified invoices as well as original debit and credit notes received from suppliers. (vii) Customs import and export entries. (viii) Sales records These are divided into three separate accounts. (a) Taxable sales at the standard rate and the VAT thereon or VAT charged thereon.
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(c) Exempt sales. (ix) Transit documents (x) Contracts. (xi) Computer generated records Failure to keep proper records attracts a penalty which is equivalent to double the amount of tax assessed for any tax period where the records are improper.
12.2
Offences
Failure to comply with any tax obligation is an offence which is liable to a fine or imprisonment or to both if convicted.
Taxation Handbook
100
Local Excise Duty
Part D
Part D Local Excise Duty
101
Local Excise Duty

1
1.1
Local Excise Duty

Excise Duty
Excise duty is a tax on consumption of specified goods and services. It is imposed in respect of the supply of specified locally manufactured goods and provision of specified services in Uganda. It is also levied on specified imported goods.
1.2
Imposition ition o of the Tax

Th tax is administered under the East African Excise This Management Act, Cap 28 while the rates applicable are listed under the Excise Tariff Act 338 of the Law of Uganda as amended.
Taxable Value
Local Excise duty is payable on:
The ex-factory price of specied locally manufactured goods. The ex-factory price includes Raw material costs, Direct labour costs, Overhead costs, non-production costs plus prot. Sec 47(i) of EAEMA Fourth schedule Sec. 1. Sales value of airtime and talk time
Tax Point
This is the point at which the transaction becomes taxable which is at the time of delivery of the excisable products.
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Local Excise Duty
Licensing
It is a requirement that all persons dealing in excisable goods should get a licence from URA for the purpose of local excise management and regulation. This license is renewed annually. A license is issued in respect of a factory and class of goods or services.
Remission (waiver) of Excise Duty

Excise duty will be waived or exempted under the following conditions: (a) Where goods are exported (b) Goods that are returned to the factory
Taxation Handbook
Returns and Payment

Dealers in excisable goods and services are required to file monthly returns. The return of excisable goods is to be submitte tted by 21st day of the month following the month h in which delivery was made; while the return for serv ervices is due by the 15th day of the month following ng the month in which payment for the services was s made. m Failure to comply with the requirement req leads to penalties as specified in the Act. Act
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Tax Computation/ Tax Rates

Local excise duty rates may be ad valorem or specific: An ad valorem rate is a fixed percentage of the value of the goods that is the ex-factory price e.g. 10% of value X. A specific rate is a value of a specific amount of money that does not vary with the price of the good but with its weight, volume, surface, etc. The specific rate stipulates how many any units of currency are to be levied per unit nit of quantity qu (e.g. sugar is charged at a specific ic rate of Shs 50 per kg).
On Goods: (using ad valorem rate) Excise duty is payable on the ex-factory price of the manufactured goods. If the Ex-factory price of water (price at delivery) is Shs 1,000 per litre, therefore excise duty will be 10% of the Shs 1000 per litre.
i.e. Ex-factory price = Shs 1,000 Excise duty at a given rate (10%) = 1,000 10%, = Shs 100.
Total price before be VAT will be Ex-factory price plus excise duty. OR Total price before VAT = Ex-factory price + Excise duty.
= 1,000 + 100 = Shs 1,100 VAT thereof at a given rate of (18%) = 1,100 18% = Shs 198 Selling price = Shs 1298
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Local Excise Duty
On Goods (using specific rate) If the total amount of sugar delivered out of the factory is 120,000 kg for a given period, then excise duty on the sugar will be Shs 50 for every kg delivered.
i.e. Number of kg delivered Excise duty on the delivery = Shs 6,000,000 =120,000 kg = 120,000 Shs 50
On services Excise duty on services (airtime usage) is payable on the usage charged by the telephone services providers. Sec. 2 of the Excise Tariff Act.
Taxation Handbook
Section 5 of the Excise Tariff Act states that the excise duty shall be charged together with Value Added Tax. Therefore if the value of Airtime cards is Shs 1,539. Then excise duty will be 12% of the Shs 1,539 and VAT will be 18% of the Shs 1,539.
Therefore cost of airtime card Shs 1,539 Excise duty 12% VAT at 18% Total taxes 30% Selling price of airtime card = Shs 2,000 = 1,539 12% = Shs 184 = 1,539 18% = Shs 277 = 277 + 184 = 461 = 461 + 1539
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Excise Tariff rates (2011 2012)

Product Rate
1. Cigarettes (a) Extracts, essences and concentrates (b) Cigars, cheroots, cigarillos containing tobacco (c) Soft cup (whose local content is more than 70% of its constituents) (d) Other soft cup (e) Hinge Lid (f) Other 2. Beer (a) Made from malt (b) Whose local raw material content, excluding water is at least 75% by weight of its constituents 3. Spirits (a) Made from locally produced raw materials (b) Other 4. Wines (a) Made from locally produced raw materials (b) Other 5. Soft drinks e.g. soda, Juices Water including mineral waters and aerated waters, containing sweetening matter or avored
10% 150% Shs. 22,000 per 1000 sticks Shs. 25,000 per 1000 sticks Shs. 55,000 per 1000 sticks 160% 60% 20%
Local Excise Duty
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45% 70% 20% 70%
13%
Product
Rate
6. Drinking water Mineral water, bottled and other water purposely for drinking 7. Airtime/Service fee on cellular phones 8. Landlines and public payphones 9. Cement 10. Fuel (a) Motor Spirit (gasoline) (b) Gas Oil (automotive, light, amber for high speed engine) (c) Other gas oils (d) Gas oil for thermal power generation to national grid (e) Illuminating kerosene 11. Sugar Cane or beet sugar and chemically pure sucrose in solid form 12. Cane or beet sugar for industrial use 13. Sacks and bags and other plastics
10% 12% 5% Shs. 500 per 50kg Shs. 850/- per litre Shs. 530/- per litre Shs. 530/- per litre Nil, effective 1st March 2006 Nil
Taxation Handbook
Shs. 25 per kg 0% 120%
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Non-Tax Revenue (NTR)
Part E
Part E Non Tax Revenue (NTR)
109
Non-Tax Revenue (NTR)

1 Non-Tax Revenue (NTR)
This refers to duties, fees, and levies that are charged by Government for the provision of specific services and penalties for specified offences. Non-Tax Revenues (NTR) are imposed by specific Acts of Parliament and administered by ministries and other government departments. The NTR directly irectly administered by URA includes stamp amp duty and motor vehicle licences and fees. How However, URA collects Other Non-Tax revenue (ONTR) on behalf of ministries and government departments. The most common examples include:
Passport fees Work permit fees Court fees and nes Trafc Express penalties Land transfer fees Royalties Business and Company registration fees Tender fees
Stamp Duty
This is a duty payable on every document that confers any right or liability upon being created, transferred, limited, extended, extinguished or recorded. These documents are referred to as instruments (currently 66)
111
Non Tax Revenue (NTR)
and they are listed in the schedule to the Stamps Act as amended and their duty rates specified therein. Stamp duty payable on specified instruments is either ad valorem (at a percentage rate) or fixed. The clients of U.R.A who draw, make and execute various instruments for stamp duty include the following;
Banks / Financial Institutions Insurance Companies Registrar Generals ofce Registrar of Titles Commissioners of Oaths Administrator General Hire Purchase Companies Bonded Ware Houses
Listed below are the most common instruments upon which stamp duty is drawn, made and executed.
Taxation Handbook
Instruments with a fixed stamp duty rate

No Instrument Current rate
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09
Af davit including an af rmation or declaration Agreement or Memorandum of an agreement Articles of Association of a Company Cancellation Caveat (Under the Registration of Title tles Act) Memorandum of Association of a Co Company Partnership Policy of Insurance Power of Attorney
5,000 5,000 10,000 5,000 5,000 10,000 5,000 5,000 5,000
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No
Instrument
Current rate
10 Promissory Note 11 Release of instrument 12 Solemn or Statutory Declaration
5,000 5,000 5,000
Instruments attracting an ad valorem (percentage) rate

No Instrument Current rate
01 02 03 04 05
Debenture Equitable Mortgage Gift Hire Purchase Agreement ent Lease
0.5% of the total value
Nil
2.1
Motor Vehicle Related fees and licenses

This consists of fees and licences collectable under the Traffic and Road Safety Act Cap 361, Laws of Uganda.
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06 07 08 09
Mortgage Deed Security Bond or Mortgage Deed Transfer Capital Duty: 1. On nominal share capital or any y increase of it of any com company incorporat orporated in Uganda with limited liability lim 2. Capital duty on companies listed on the Uganda stock exchange
0.5% of total value 0.5% of total value 1% of total value 1% of total value Ground rate multiply by the number of the lease term plus premium then multiply by 1% of the total value 0.5% of total value 1% of Total value 1% of total value
2.1.1
Motor Vehicle Registration This is the process of verifying a motor vehicle, its ownership and the allocation of number plates and registration books, including re-registration and alterations.
Registration occurs at different levels: (i) First Registration. This applies to registration of vehicles imported into Uganda. First Registration is currently carried out in Kampala at the Motor Vehicle Registration Unit (MVRU) within Customs Business Centre (Nakawa) and Malaba Border. Complete registration includes:

Taxation Handbook
Issuing a Motor vehicle Registration Card or Logbook. Issuance of a Motor vehicle number plate. Opening a Vehicle Register.
Requirements for First Registration For a vehicle to be registered, the following must be established:
The vehicle was legally imported into the country from the country of origin. It is t for the purpose for which it is intended to be used. All relevant duties have been paid. All other legal documents have been furnished. The vehicle was legally exported from the country of origin. The importer of the vehicle, other than a motor cycle, must have a Tax Identication Number (TIN).
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(ii) Re-registration. Re-registration occurs when a previously registered motor vehicle in Uganda is issued with a new series of number plates. This arises under the following circumstances: (a) Changing from old number plates to new number plates. This requires payment of reregistration fees and new plates. (b) Changing from duty free to ordinary number plates and vice versa. This requires payment of Import duties on the vehicle at its current value, registration ration fees and an new plates. (c) Changing hanging from personalised to ordinary number plates l and vice versa. This requires payment of re-registration fees and new plates.
2.1.2
Transfer of ownership of a motor vehicle should be done within fourteen een (14) days from the date of sale. A person who does not transfer a vehicle on sale within the pre prescribed time commits an offence and is liable to a penalty or imprisonment or both.
Requirements for Transfer Dully completed and signed transfer forms in quadruplicate.
Where the person is a corporate body, the official stamp/seal must be affixed and a letter of consent to transfer or sell.
115
Transfer of Ownership of a Motor Vehicle This refers to change of ownership of a motor vehicle from one person to another. This function is currently centralised in Kampala Licensing Office where the motor vehicle files are kept.
Both the transferor and the transferee must present themselves to the Licensing Officer for identification.
2.1.3
Duplicate Number plate and Registration Book A person may apply to obtain duplicate number plates or registration book under the following circumstances:
(i)
Where the number plate or registration book is lost (ii) Where the number plate or registration book is defaced (iii) In case of a registration book, where the engine particulars have changed
2.1.4
Owners Transport Vehicle (OTV) This is a license that is issued to permit transportation of persons on a vehicle not adopted for the carriage of passengers. Drivers Permit A driving permit is a legal document that permits one e to drive a motor vehicle on the Road. It is issued to o an applicant who is 18 years and above and for specific spe classes of vehicles. In the process of acquiri uiring the driving permit, it necessitates a person to o visit v both a URA Licensing office and a Face Technol nology Centre.
2.1.5
Taxation Handbook
Types of permits 1. Learners Drivers permit. This Th is a provisional driving permit that allows ws the t holder to learn how to drive a motor vehicle le under the supervision of an instructor. This is s issued for a renewable period of three months.
116
2. Full driving permit. A full driving permit is issued to a learner driver who has passed a driving test. This is issued for one year or three years and is renewable for similar further periods on expiry. Altogether, there are 12 existing classes, however only 4 classes are permissible for a beginners drivers license. These include:
Group B (Passenger vehicles up to 7 people and Goods vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes), Group A (Motor Cycles), Group H (Agricultural Tractors) and Group F (Pedestrian controlled Vehicles).
Drivers Application Types 1. Driving permit Renewal. Upon expiry of a drivers permit, an application for renewal, for a period of one or three years, may be made to any URA licensing office. Application for renewal should
be made within 5 years from the date of issue or renewal; or else the validity of the permit lapses and a new permit must be applied for.
2. Addition / Extension of driving classes. A permit is issued for a specific class or classes of vehicles. However, wever, a pe person may apply to have a particular class of motor vehicle added to an existing drivers permit for qualifying drivers.
Note: Driving Groups CM (Medium goods vehicles), CH (Heavy goods vehicles), DL (Light Omni Bus), DM (Medium omni bus), DH (Heavy omni bus), G (Engineering Plant), I (Hover vehicles) and E (Combination of vehicles) can only be added on to ones permit if they are 25 years and above and in case of omni bus classes the applicant must have held group B for at least 5 years.
117
Duplicate Driving Permit. This is a replacement permit issued to an applicant when their original drivers permit is lost, defaced or when one seeks to make legal name changes on the permit. 4. Foreign exchange driving permit. This is the issuance of a Ugandan driving permit based on particulars of a foreign drivers permit, from any other country, for qualifying applicants.
Note: International Driving Permits are inadmissible for exchange. Only National driving permits issued by the respective countries national trafc authorities are accepted.
Taxation Handbook
118
Customs
Part F
Part F Customs
119
Customs
1
1.1
Customs
Customs Department
The Customs Department of the Uganda Revenue Authority is charged with administering the East African Community Customs Management Act 2004 (EAC-CMA) which provides the legal framework for customs operations. ns. The major ro roles of the Customs Department are: (i) Assessing and collecting revenues from imports, exports and all other dues, in accordance with EAC -CMA. Supervising and controlling the entrance and clearance of vehicles, vessels and aircraft engaged in international trade, and the movement of goods and people across the Ugandan borders. Promoting exports through g facilitation and administration stration of duty drawback schemes and other incentives. Detecting and preventing smuggling and fraud in the Customs administration. Supervising and controlling all import and export cargo, landed or stored at the various terminals, including Internal Container Depots (ICDs). Implementing Government objectives and commitments relating to International and
(ii)
(iii)
(iv) (i (v)
(vi)
Part F Customs
121
Customs
Regional treaties on trade and other related arrangements. (vii) Generating and providing timely and quality statistics to facilitate both organisational and national planning. Unlike the Income Tax and VAT Acts, the EAC-CMA is not limited to Uganda; but covers all countries that are members of the East African Community, which are otherwise known as the Partner States.
2
2.1
Operating Environment
The East African Community (EAC)
The East African Community is an organisation comprising the independent states of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi, whose aim is to progressively move from an economic partnership to a political union. In promoting of international trade between the partner states, a protocol for the establishment of the East Africa Customs Union was signed in 2005.
Taxation Handbook
In 2007 Rwanda and Burundi joined the EAC EA and became part of the East African Customs s Union. U The incorporation into the Customs Union on was effected in July 2009.
2.2
Objectives of the Customs Union

The main objective of the he Customs Union is the formation of a single customs ustoms territory with trade at the core. Within a Customs Union, partner states state
122
operate as a single customs territory and trading bloc. This enables Partner states to enjoy a wider market for goods and services with a view of enhancing economic development. This is achieved through: (i) Elimination of internal tariffs and non-tariff barriers that could hinder trade between the partner states, in order to facilitate formation of one single market and investment area. (ii) Harmonisation of policies relating to trade between the he Partner Partne states and other countries, such h as the th external tariffs.
2.3
Main Features of a Customs Union Ma

The main features of a Customs Union include the following: (i) A common set of import duty rates applied on goods from non-Partner states under the Common External Tariff, (CET).
(ii) Duty-free and quota-free movement of tradable goods among mong its constituent customs territories. (iii) i) Common Com safety measures for regulating the importation of goods from third parties such as phyto-sanitary requirements and food standards. (iv) A common set of customs rules and procedures including documentation. (v) A common coding and description of tradable goods (Common Tariff Nomenclature (CTN)).
Part F Customs
123
Customs
(vi) A common valuation method for tradable goods for tax (duty) purposes (common valuation system). (vii) A structure for collective administration of the Customs Union. (viii) A common trade policy that guides the trading relationships with third countries/trading blocs outside the Customs Union i.e. guidelines for entering into preferential trading arrangements such as Free Trade Areas (FTA), with third parties. Such features of the EAC Customs Union are embodied in the Customs Union Protocol and its annexure, Common Customs Law (EAC-CMA) and regulations prescribed by the East African Treaty which in totality impacts on customs operations. In addition to the EAC-CMA, the Common External Tariff (CET) and the EAC Protocol, there are several international conventions and other instruments designed to harmonise and simplify custom oms procedures such as; the Revised Kyoto Conven vention which contains the basic principles for all l customs c procedures and practices. The Kyoto Conven vention aims at ensuring integrity, facilitation and d control, co client service, standardisation, automation n and a compliance improvement.
Taxation Handbook
124
3
3.1

Customs Duty
This refers to taxes levied on imported or exported goods. The two types of customs duties collected under international trade are import and export duty. The duties are listed in the countrys tariff schedule. Duties may be ad valorem or specific.
An ad valorem duty is a xed percentage of the value
of the goods that are being imported e.g. 10% of value X. A specific duty is a duty of a specic amount of money that does not vary with the price of the goods but with its weight, volume, surface, etc. The specic duty stipulates how many units of currency are to be levied per unit of quantity (e.g. fuel could be charged at a specic duty of Shs 600 per litre. If this were ad valorem it would be say 10% of a CIF value which would be determined from time to time.
3.2
Import
This means to t bring or cause to be brought into the Partner states goods from a foreign country. Partn
3.3
Imported Goods
These are goods that are brought into the Partner states from a foreign country.
Part F Customs
125
Customs
3.4
Goods
These include all kinds of articles, wares, merchandise, livestock and currency, and, where such goods are sold under the EAC-CMA, the proceeds of such sale. Goods may be brought into the Partner states by sea, air or overland as a means of transport.
3.5
Prohibited Goods
These are goods whose importation or exportation is not allowed under the EAC-CMA, for instance narcotic drugs, hazardous wastes, used tyres for light commercial vehicles and passenger cars, all soaps and cosmetic products containing mercury.
3.6
Restricted Goods
These are goods whose importation or exportation is only allowed under specific conditions as provided for by the EAC-CMA. For example, arms and ammunitions, ivory, timber from any wood grown n in the Partner states and fresh unprocessed fish, among am others.
Taxation Handbook
3.7
Tariff
This is a rate of tax levied on imports orts or exports.
3.8
CET
This means the Common External Tariff and is an identical rate of tariff imposed on goods imported from foreign countries s into i Partner states.
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3.9
CIF
This means Cost, Insurance and Freight.
3.10
Goods in Transit
These are goods being conveyed through the customs territory(Partner states) from a foreign country to another foreign country e.g. Goods from South Africa through Tanzania and Uganda to DRC.
3.11
Import Duty
This refers to the customs duties that are payable at importation. impo
3.12
Export Duty
This refers to any customs duty payable on exportation of goods.
3.13
Customs Area
This is a place appointed nted by the Commissioner b by notice in writing for fo the deposit of goods subject to customs toms control.
Customs
3.14
Proper Of cer
Proper Officer means any officer whose right or duty is to require the performance of, or to perform the acts referred to in the EAC-CMA.
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4
4.1
Customs Procedures
Declaration of Goods
When goods are brought into a customs area e.g. a border entry point, customs must be informed of the person responsible to fulfill the customs obligations with regard to the goods on board. This can be the owner of the goods or a third party, including customs brokers, agents and transporters referred to as declarants. The importer or his authorised agent (declarant) enters the goods on a Customs Single Bill of Entry or the Single Administrative Document (SAD). The declarant must furnish a formal report to Customs within 24 hours and make the necessary declaration in respect of the imported goods to the Customs Officer. The EAC-CMA prohibits the removal of any goods from a Customs area before they have been duly reported and entered. Goods may be entered for: or:
Taxation Handbook
(i)
Direct home use, where goods are entered ent and paid ready for home consumption.
(ii) Transit, where goods are entered ered to be moved from one customs area to anot other and across the border into another country try. (iii) Temporary importation, on, i.e. where goods are imported temporarily ily for a specific period of time and intended to be returned after use.
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(iv) Warehousing, i.e. where an importer is not ready to clear the goods immediately, the goods must be kept in a customs bonded warehouse until such a time when they can be released.
4.2
Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA)

ASYCUDA is used for processing transactions of all goods imported in, and exported out of the country. The system allows self declaration, assessment and payment of taxes by the importer/exporter. mporter/exporter.
4.3
Assessment ment of o Duties and Taxes

Dete Determination of tax payable is made using tax rates defined in the customs tariff nomenclature (EACCET) or other instruments of the law, which are provided for in the relevant schedules of the EACCMA. In Uganda duties and taxes are payable through selfassessment procedures where taxpayers use Direct Trader Input (DTI) centres to make declarations which are captured tured into the ASYCUDA system to enable payment paymen of tax in designated banks. Th declaration system provides a quicker and more This efficient service with less paperwork. It also provides an effective means of identifying and preventing fraud.
Customs
4.4
Selectivity of Documents
Upon payment of taxes assessed, goods are subjected to random selectivity based on risk management
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assessment criterion leading to either physical examination or documentary check or direct release of the goods.
4.5
Physical Examination
This refers to the verification of goods to confirm their quantity, quality and description as per the declaration. In case of discrepancy, the goods will be subjected to offence procedures.
4.6
Document Check
This refers to examination of documents for completeness and correctness. For any importation of goods, the following documents are required for making a declaration to customs: (i) Bill of lading/airway bill. (ii) Insurance certificate. (iii) Pro-forma invoices. (iv) Commercial invoices. (v) Certificates of origin.
Taxation Handbook
(vi) Permits for restricted goods. (vii) Purchase order. (viii) Packing list (ix) Sales contract (x) Any other supporting documents. doc
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4.7
Direct Release
Declarations that fully comply with the selectivity criteria are released without being subjected to some customs procedures.
4.8
Valuation of Goods
Valuation is the determination of the Customs value for taxation purposes. This then forms the basis for the computation of taxes due on the imported/ exported goods. Valuation is based on the General Agreement on Tariff and d Trade (GATT). This is a World Trade Organisation (WTO) agreement which prescribes the following six (W methods: (i) Transaction value. (ii) Transaction value of identical goods. (iii) Transaction value of similar goods. (iv) Deductive value. (v) Computed value. (vi) Fall back ack value. The methods me are applicable sequentially and adjusted according to the law. When declaration is not complete and accurate, an uplift of the value may be made based on the ruling international export price of the goods. In case of failure to declare taxes accordingly, penalties are instituted against the declarant and the importer based on the magnitude of the offence as prescribed under the EAC-CMA.
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Customs
5
5.1
Clearance of Passengers and Baggage

Clearance of Passengers
Embarking and disembarking passenger clearance is done only at Customs gazetted areas such as airports, seaports, landing sites and points of entry at land borders. All disembarking passengers must make a declaration to Customs through the Red or Green Channel according to the EAC-CMA.
Green Channel means NOTHING TO DECLARE. Red Channel means SOMETHING TO DECLARE.
5.2
Passengers Baggage and Personal Effects

Baggage and personal effects imported into Uganda by passengers may be declared and due taxes paid or are exempted from taxes in the manner specified below: w: (a) General For goods to be exempted from taxes, the general gen condition is that the goods must be the e property p of and in the company of the passen senger. They should be for the personal or hous ousehold use of the passenger and of such kinds nds and quantities as the Customs Officer may allow and in accordance with the specif cified restrictions. Any trade goods or goods for or sale s or disposal to other persons accompanying ing a passenger are cleared in the same manner er as other imported goods on
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which duty is payable except that the customs value shall not include air freight. (b) Duty Free Allowances for Passengers The following items may be imported as duty free items: (i) Spirits (including liquors) or wine, not exceeding one litre or wine not exceeding two litres. (ii) Perfume and toilet water not exceeding in all one half litre, of which not more than a quarter r may be p perfume. (iii) i) Cigarettes, Cig cigars, cheroots, cigarillos, tobacco and snuff not exceeding in all 250 grams in weight. The import duty free allowance shall be granted only to passengers who have attained the age of eighteen years. Goods up to the value of US$ 500 for each traveler, other than the goods specified above, are granted exemption when imported by the traveler in his/her accompanied baggage ge or upon his person and declared to a proper er officer provided p the person has been outside Uganda ganda for a period exceeding 24 hours.
Exemptions under the Fifth Schedule of EAC-CMA

Section 114 of the EAC-CMA provides for exemption of customs duties and taxes on importations by specified categories of people and goods outlined in the 5th Schedule of the law.
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Customs
Exemptions fall in two broad categories namely specific and general exemptions. Below are some of the examples: (a) Specic Exemptions These apply to goods imported by or on behalf of; (i) The President. (ii) Donor agencies with bilateral or multilateral agreements with the partner states. (iii) International and regional organisations with diplomatic accreditation. (iv) Disabled, blind and physically handicapped persons. (v) Rally drivers (one motor vehicle and parts). (b) General Exemptions These apply to goods of a general nature that fall in various categories which include the following: (i) Deceased persons effects. (ii) Passengers baggage and personal effects of passengers. (iii) Mosquito nets and materials for fo the manufacture of mosquito nets. (iv) Inputs for use in the manufacture man of medicaments. (v) Educational articles and materials as specified in the Floren ence Agreement.
6.1
Taxation Handbook
BonaFide Passengers Chan hanging Residence

The following goods may be exempted under this item when imported, as baggage by a person enteri entering
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a Partner state, to whom the proper officer is satisfied is bonafide changing residence from a place outside a Partner state to a place within a Partner state, where the person has neither been granted an exemption under this paragraph nor resided in a Partner state before his arrival other than on temporary nonresident visits: (i) Wearing apparel. (ii) Personal and household effects of any kind which were in his personal or household use in his former place of f residence. (iii) One motor vehicle, ve (excluding buses and minibuses of seating capacity of more than 13 passengers and load carrying vehicles of load carrying capacity exceeding two tonnes), which the passenger has personally owned and used outside a partner state for at least 12 months (excluding the period of the voyage in the case of shipment).
6.2
Temporary Visit
The following goods may ay be exempted under this item when imported as baggage by a person whom the proper officer is satisfied is making a temporary visit not exceeding three months to a Partner state. vis (i) Non-consumable goods imported for his personal use during his visit which he intends to take out with him when he leaves at the end of his visit. (ii) Consumable goods and non-alcoholic beverages in such quantities and of such kinds as are in the opinion of the proper officer consistent with his visit.
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Customs
(iii) That the goods are imported by a returning resident being an employee of an international organisation the headquarters of which are in a Partner state and who has been recalled for consultations at the organisations headquarters.
6.3
Returning Residents
The following goods may be exempted under this category when imported as baggage by a person who the proper officer is satisfied is a resident of a Partner state returning from a visit outside a Partner state and who is not changing residence: (i) Wearing apparel. (ii) Personal and household effect which have been in his personal use or household use.
Specic Duty
Illustration 1 Acul Ocolo imports 100 cartons of jute bags from Hong Kong. Each carton contains 200 pieces. The CIF Mombasa for the goods is US$ 5,000. The customs duty rate for the jute bags is US$ 0.45 per piece. Assuming the exchange rate is Shs 1,700 to a dollar, determine the customs duty payable.
Taxation Handbook
Solution Step 1: Deriving customs duty Applying the duty rate of US$ 0.45 per piece 100ctns 200pcs .................................................... 20,000 pieces
Import duty (ID) will be; ID = 20,000 US$0.45 ...............................................US$ 9,000 ID = US$ 9,000 1,700 .................................... Shs15,300,000. Therefore, the customs duty payable is Shs 15,300,000.
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Illustration 2 Assuming Acul Ocolo imports a used motor vehicle from Dubai at a CIF value of US$ 4,300 attracting 25% import duty, VAT of 18%, withholding tax of 6% and environmental levy of 20%. The current exchange rate is Shs 1,700 to a dollar. Solution Step 1 Convert exchange rate to Uganda shillings. Customs value (CIF) = $ 4,300 1,700 CIF value in Uganda shillings = Shs 7,310,000
Step 2
Import duty Apply 25% import duty rate to the customs value Shs 7,310,000. I.D = Shs 7,310,000 25% I.D = Shs 1,827,500.
Step 3
Value Added Tax at 18% The VAT value is derived by adding the customs value to import duty (CIF + I.D) VAT value = (Shs 7,310,000 + Shs 1,827,500) To derive VAT you apply the VAT rate to the VAT value VAT = (Shs 7,310,000 + Shs 1,827,500) 18% = Shs 9,137,500 18% = Shs 1,644,750
Step 4
Withholding tax at 6% To derive withholding tax you apply the withholding tax rate to the customs value. Customs value = Shs 7,310,000 6% Withholding tax = Shs 438,600
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Customs
Step 5
Environmental levy of 20% (Finance Bill 2008/09) Shs 7,310,000 20% = Shs 1,462,000 Therefore, the total tax payable by Acul Ocolo on the vehicle imported from Dubai will comprise of: Import duty .........................................................................1,827,500 VAT ........................................................................................1,644,750 Withholding tax ....................................................................438,600 Environmental levy of ..................................................... 1,462,000 Total taxes payable ...................................................... 5,372,850 Note: Please remember that this total excludes registration fees and other costs.
Illustration 3 Acul Ocolo imported a 1 20 container of tiles from Egypt.

Note: Egypt is a member of COMESA so the duty rate is 6%.
On examination, 3 pallets were found with each package consisting of granite, polished porcelain and nd ceramic tiles. Below are the particulars:
Taxation Handbook
Qty and description
Size
Qty sq m total surface area
CIF value
922ctns 20pcs 30cm 30cm Porcelain 357ctns 6pcs 50cm 50cm Ceramic 435ctns 4pcs 60cm 60cm Granite
Total (d)
1,6596.0 5,355.0 .0 6,264.0 6,2

(e)
US$ 4,978 US$ 3,213 US$ 11,282.4

US$ 19,473.4
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Computation Step 1: Determining customs value Convert exchange rate to Uganda shillings Customs value (CIF) US$ 19,473.4 1,700 = Shs 33,104,780
Step 2: Deriving import duty

Apply 6% import duty rate (COMESA rate) to the customs value in Uganda shillings I.D = 33,104,780 6% I.D = Shs 1,986,287
Step 3: Det Determining VAT at 18%

The VAT value is derived by adding the customs value to import duty and excise duty (CIF + I.D + E.D) VAT value = CIF + I.D + E.D) To derive VAT you apply the VAT rate to the VAT value VAT = Shs (33,104,780 + 1,986,287 + NIL) 18% = Shs 35,091,067 18% = Shs 6,316,392
Step 4: Determining withholding tax (WHT) 6%

Apply 6% withholding tax rate to the customs value in Uganda shillings. I.D = 33,104,780 6% I.D = Shs 1,986,287 Therefore, the Total tax payable (T.T.P) by Mr. Acul Ocolo on tiles from Egypt (COMESA Region) will comprise of: Import duty .........................................................................1,986,287 Excise duty .......................................................................................NIL VAT ........................................................................................6,316,392 Withholding tax .................................................................1,986,287 Total tax payable ....................................................... 10,288,966
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Customs
Export Duty
This refers to any customs duties payable on exportation of goods. For the EAC, there is a Common External Tariff (CET) where goods are categorised based on the international harmonised commodity description and coding system. However export duty is computed based on the tax rate imposed by the exporting country.
8.1
Examination of Goods
The goods are examined and if the proper officer is satisfied with the valuation and documentation, the goods are released for export. The examination is based on grades ranging from Grade I - IV and the weight per kilogram.
8.2
Export Duty Computation

Determination of export duty involves the following processes:
Taxation Handbook
Determination of the customs value may be based on the FOB cost or on quantity of the product. For example export tax on hides and skins is determined according to the quantity as illustrated below: Determination of the tax payable on export of some specied grades of hides and skins is US$ 0.25 per kilogram as contained in the Finance Act.
Illustration 4 Acul-Ocolo Tanners Ltd is an exporter of hides and skins. They have 10 plates of wet salted hides & skin of various grades and weights and values in a 1 20 container with details as here below:
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S/No
Skin grades
Weight
1. 2. 3.
Grade I and II 7,500 kg g US$ 0.25 p per kg g Grade III and IV 1,000 kg g US$ 0.25 p per kg g Grand total 8,500 (f)
Value/grade/Kg Export duty in US$ in US$
1,875 250 2,125
Exchange rate for exports differs from that of imports and for this case, the rate is Shs 1,700 per 1 US$. Therefore, customs value in Uganda shillings will be: Export duty in Shs = Total weight Rate (US$ 0.25 per kg) exchange rate 8,500 US$ 0.25 per kg 1,700 = Shs 3,612,500
Computation of Import Duty

Import duty = Customs value Import duty rate Customs value = C+ I + F which is cost, insurance and freight. However, for air freight cargo, value is based on only the cost and insurance (C&I) of the goods. It excludes the cost of freight. Determination of the tax payable using the tax rates is as defined in the customs tariffs contained in the CET. The CET T stipula stipulates three tax bands (rates) of: (i) 0% 0 for raw materials. (ii) 10% for intermediate goods or semi processed goods. (iii) 25% for finished goods originating outside the EAC. Furthermore, duty payable may be determined by giving consideration to origin and other existing trade agreements due to preferential rates for example COMESA rates.
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Customs
Finally, the goods are examined by a proper officer and if satisfied with the valuation and documentation, the goods are released after payment of taxes.
10 Objections and Appeals

10.1
Objection to the Commissioner

A person affected directly by the decision or omission of the Commissioner may lodge an objection within 30 days of the decision or omission and apply for a review. The Commissioner may extend the period of objection where there is good cause. The Commissioner shall respond to an objection within 30 days of receiving it or else be deemed to have allowed it.
10.2
Appeals to the Tax Appeals Tribunal

A person dissatisfied with the decision of the Commissioner may appeal to the Tax Appeals Tribunal. A party dissatisfied with the ruling or decision of the he Tax Appeals Tribunal may, within 30 days after being bein notified of the decision or within such further time tim as the High Court may allow, appeal the decisio sion of the Tribunal in the High Court. Tax Appeals Tribunal Appeal to the High court is only on the questions of the law. URA Commissioner
General
Taxation Handbook
Structure of the Appeal System.
Objects
Taxpayer
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Part G
Special Features of the Taxes Administered by the URA
Part G Special Features of the Taxes Adminstred by the URA
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Special Features of the Taxes Administered by the URA

1 Payment of Tax
The law allows the Commissioner General to enforce the collection of tax that has been assessed where the assessed person has refused or failed to comply. In this case, the taxes xes may be collected using various methods, such uch as:
1.1
By Distress Di
Whereby goods on which the assessed person has a claim are sold in order to recover tax.
1.2
By Agency Notice
Whereby a person who has money or other liability of the assessed person is required to pay the held amount directly to the URA.
1.3
From Receivers ers

They r recover debts from the taxpayer.
Regulations
The Minister responsible for Finance and in respect of customs taxes at the EAC makes regulations for the better carrying out of the provisions of the main Acts.
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Special Features of the Taxes Adminstred by the URA
The regulations other than for customs are made by way of Statutory Instruments, which include: (i) The VAT Regulations. (ii) Distrait Rules. (iii) Withholding Tax Regulations.
3
3.1
Rulings
Practice Notes
To achieve consistency in the administration of taxes and to provide guidance to taxpayers and officers of the URA, the Commissioner may issue practice notes setting out the Commissioners interpretation of the Income Tax Act and Value Added Tax Act. However practice notes are not binding on the taxpayers though binding on the Commissioner General until revoked.
3.2
Private Rulings
A taxpayer may apply in writing to the Commissioner seeking the Commissioners position regarding the he application of a taxation Act to a transaction propose posed entered into by a taxpayer. A taxpayer in this case is required to o make m full disclosure of the circumstances of the e transactions and to apply it as stated. A private ruling can then be mad made to the taxpayer on the facts disclosed. Howeve ver where there is any inconsistency between a prac ractice note and a private ruling, priority is given to the terms of the private ruling.
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Remission of Tax
In some cases, tax cannot be recovered from a taxpayer by reason of: (i) Consideration of hardship. (ii) Impossibility, undue difficulty or excessive cost of recovery in such cases. However, this is subject to the Commissioner Generals opinion which is also subject to the Ministers approval.
Double Taxation Treaties

Uganda has treaties with some countries such as the United Kingdom, Netherlands, South Africa, Denmark, Mauritius, India and Italy, which provide different tax regimes from that in the Income Tax Act i.e. different tax regimes from that in the Income Tax Act i.e. different tax rates for dividends, interest, loyalties, technical and management fees, among others.
Note: It is important to observe that the terms treaty or international agreement prevail over the provisions of the Income Tax Act.
Taxpayers Charter
The URA operates a taxpayers charter as shown herein.
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Preamble
The URA Taxpayers Charter spells out the rights and obligations of the Taxpayer, guides URA in upholding these rights and facilitates the Taxpayer to meet his or her obligations. It was launched in 2002 and first revised in April 2006 to accommodate the developments in Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and later in December 2006 to align it with the Public Service Client Charter and the latest revision in June 2011. The Charter derives authority from the various Tax laws and Regulations governing the administration of taxes in Uganda and clearly outlines the expectations of both the Taxpayer and the Tax Authority. It acts as a reference point for the Taxpayers in managing their interaction with URA and provides des the Tax body with the necessary benchmark for its Client Service Standards. This is done by recogn ognising its clients as viable partners in the administra stration and collection of taxes.
Taxation Handbook
The Taxpayers charter is therefore a set s of guidelines that guarantees a meaningful rela elationship between URA and its various stakeholders ers.
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Who we are
the Uganda Revenue Authority Statute No. 6 of 1991 as a central body for the assessment and collection of specified tax revenue, to administer and enforce laws relating to such revenue and to account for all the revenue to which those laws apply. The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) is also required to advise the Government on matters of policy relating to all revenue, whether or not this revenue is specified in statute No. 6.
URAS Vision, Mission, Core Values and Tagline

URAs Vision To be a model for best practice and innovation in revenue services. URA Mission Statement To provide excellent revenue services with purpose and passion. Core values
Excellence. Integrity. Team work. Respect.
Tagline Developing Uganda Together
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How we are organized to Serve you

Administration: Uganda Revenue Authority is administered by a Board of Directors, which is the policy making body entrusted with general oversight of the organisation. The Management of URA is headed by the Commissioner General, who at the same time is responsible for two divisions namely: division manages Uganda Revenue Authoritys interface with the Public through Clients Relations and Tax Education. (ii) Research, Planning and Development: This division is entrusted with the overall responsibility to coordinate the planning and monitoring of the implementation of business processes in the organisation. Administratively, URA has six Departments, as follows: (i)
Public and Corporate Affairs Management: This
Legal Service and Board Affairs

The main role of the Department is to serve as an inhouse legal firm to provide legal services on all issues that may arise in the day-to-day opera eration of the organisation. The Department represen sents URA in the courts of law as well as quasi courts rts.
Taxation Handbook
Customs Services Departme ment

This department is responsibl ible for handling all customs issues including assessing ng and collecting revenues in accordance with the rele levant tax laws.
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Domestic Taxes Department

This department is charged with the responsibility of administering all domestic tax affairs; registration, receipt of returns, filing, auditing, assessments, collections, and refunds. In addition to tax revenue, it also administers non-tax revenue as mandated by Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
Corporate Services Department

This department is s responsible for all the support service functions ctions in i the organisation. These include; Research arch and a Planning, Finance, Administration, Information Technology and Human Resources. Infor
Internal Audit and Compliance Department

This department offers audit assurance services to other departments on the adequacy of internal control systems and monitors adherence to the set standards.
Tax Investigations Department

This department nt is charged with monitoring and pursuing ng all cases ca of tax crime and evasion-related activit ctivities.
Specied Targets
Uganda Revenue Authority receives annual revenue targets from its parent Ministry, The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. URAs long-term goal is to collect Revenue that will fully finance the Government recurrent and Development expenditure.
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Feedback from clients

URA values feedback and shall continue to inculcate a communication culture through the following initiatives:
Taxpayers Days Tax Clinics The Annual Taxpayers Appreciation Day The Annual Client Satisfaction Surveys and The Media.
Other tools used to generate feedback from clients include:

The URA Web portal The URA Toll Free line 0800117000 Suggestion boxes The Client Feedback Form
Feedback is invaluable to URA for the following g reasons:

It enables us to know how well we are performing against the parameters put in place. Through this, we are constantly kept in a position to determine our strategic direction. It also provides a basis for the short term activities we must carry out in order to satisfy our client.
Taxation Handbook
URA is committed to placing ng the customer first and shall undertake all possible e measures m to achieve this.
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Managing Complaints URA recognises that managing feedback is a critical factor in Client Service and is therefore committed to giving instant responses to all complaints raised using established feedback tools. Accountability Accountability is a primary tool of ensuring continuity in any relationship.
URA shall:
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Uphold zero tolerance to corruption. We have launched an Integrity Enhancement Project that will oversee integrity issues in URA. Avail all the necessary information to all our stakeholders. Be responsive to the environmental and societal needs of the community in which we operate through comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility programs. Hold periodic press briefs to keep the public informed in regard to tax and tax related issues. Disseminate information to the public on demand through established channels. Establish strong internal controls to check on the performance of our procedures.
Performance improvement
URA has embraced several initiatives aimed at improving organisational effectiveness and efficiency including the following: (i) Restructuring: URA reorganised itself to provide a leaner, more efficient and focused institution with a highly motivated and proactive workforce. (ii) Attitude Change: URA shall uphold the Organisational Core Values while undertaking Team Building Events and staff Training to achieve positive behavioural change. (iii) URA Client Service Standards: The standards will provide a benchmark for the measurement of performance levels across the organisation
Dissemination of information
Is key in the relationship between URA and the he Public; and this will be achieved through: (i) Appointed Regional Spokespersons who wh deal with all public relations issues in a bid d to t improve information flow to all stakeholders ers. (ii) Developed a Web portal to cater cat for our vast clientele. This is aimed at giving givi our clients one quick access to handy mater terial in regard to URA, its processes and procedu dures. (iii) Profile and segment t all sectors of the business community to enable nable a focused approach in
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designing and conducting Tax sensitisation programs. (iv) Participate in Exhibitions where Tax Information Centers are established to handle client issues. (v) Partner with the media to take the tax message to the grass roots. (vi) Hold periodic press briefings to enlighten the public on current issues pertaining to the Authority or its dealings. (vii) Produce simplified tax material to benefit its vast clientele. (viii) Translate ranslate simplified tax material in local languages to empower all the taxpayers with tax information. (ix) Implemented the Taxation course units in the Ugandan School Curriculum.
Monitoring and evaluating performance

URA shall continue to monitor and evaluate performance ce through a number of avenues. These include: de: (i) Periodic client satisfaction surveys Feedback from such surveys will be used to improve on our service delivery. (ii) The URA Client Service Standards. These Standards detail how URA shall relate with all her stakeholders. They are an open commitment on what the customer should expect as the
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minimum service levels from all URA staff. Our stakeholders are encouraged to know the provisions therein and give feedback relating to staff performance.
i
1
Rights of the Taxpayer

Equity
You have a right to equity:
Tax laws and procedures shall be applied consistently to you. All your tax affairs shall be handled with impartiality. You and your agents shall be presumed honest until proven otherwise. You shall always pay the correct tax.
Condentiality
Your tax affairs shall be kept secret and tax information in our possession shall be used in accordance with the law.
Facilitation of Tax Compliance
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You and your authorised agent(s) shall be provided with clear, precise and timely information. You shall receive courteous and professional services at all times. You will receive timely, clear and accurate responses to your enquiries, complaints or requests. You shall be availed with reasons for decisions taken. You shall be sensitized about your tax obligations.
Objections and Appeals
Your tax objections shall be attended in accordance with the relevant laws and procedures. You shall be facilitated to exercise your right(s) of appeal both within the organization and to an independent tax tribunal in accordance with the law.
Prior Notices
You shall be given prior notice whenever your premise(s) are to be subjected to routine inspection or if an audit is to be conducted.
Accountability Acc
Your tax account shall be promptly updated for the tax paid. We shall maintain an updated database of your tax records
Tax Refunds
Where a tax refund is due to you, we shall process it within the presc prescribed time limits under the laws subject ubject to t budget refund limits.
8
Processing Returns, Customs Entries and other Documents
We shall process your tax returns, entries and any other

documents relating to your tax affairs as stipulated under the relevant laws.
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Customer Care
We shall ensure excellent customer care by:
Being courteous to you. Offering ourselves for constructive criticism and advice from you at all times. Receiving and acting promptly on all complaints made against our ofcers in accordance with the URA staff code of conduct .
j
1
Obligation of the Taxpayer

Registration
Ensure that you voluntarily register with Uganda Revenue Authority as a taxpayer.
This requires you to obtain a Tax Identication Number (TIN), which is free to every applicant and is your unique identier for all tax purposes. You can apply for a TIN online through URAs eservices. Simply visit URAs web portal (http://ura.go.ug)
Filing Returns and Entries
Taxation Handbook
File correct Tax Returns, Customs Entries or any forms relating to taxes and other revenue related obligations at the right time and place and as required by law. This can also be done through our e-services.
Tax Payment
Pay the correct tax at the right time and place as required by the relevant laws.
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Cooperation with the Authority
In handling your tax matters, you and or your appointed agent(s) shall be expected to deal and cooperate only with the Authoritys authorized staff.
Disclosure/ Declaration
Be honest with URA Treat URA staff fairly and with courtesy Let URA know if you need an interpreter Quote your Tax Identication Number (TIN) for all dealings with URA. Comply with the taxation requirements and regulations Make full disclosure of information and correct declaration of all transactions at all times. Do not indulge in any form of tax evasion and other illegal practices.
When you are travelling
When you are importing or exporting cargo
You may wish to use the services of a licensed customs agent to complete Customs entries and related clearance formalities.
159
Ensure that you have accurately completed all the necessary forms before you reach the arrival / departure processing point. Be aware of and comply with customs, quarantine, wildlife, currency and passenger concession requirements. Declare your goods on arrival and have them ready for inspection.
We will regularly review our charter so that it remains relevant and accurate. If you have any complaints, compliments, queries or suggestions to make, our contacts are:
Uganda Revenue Authority, Public and Corporate Affairs Division, P. O. BOX 7279, Kampala, Uganda . Tel: 0417 442054/5 or 0417 443150 URA Toll free help line: 0800117000 Email: info@ura.go.ug URA Web portal: //ura.go.ug Disclaimer:
This information is strictly for the purpose of guidance to our clientele and is subject to change on amendment of Tax legislation and any other regulations governing Tax administration
Taxation Handbook
160
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F
Uganda Revenue Authority,

Public and Corporate Affairs Division, P. O. BOX 7279, Kampala, Uganda. Tel: 0417 442054/5 or 0417 443150 URA Toll free help line: 08001 17000 Email: info@ura.go.ug URA Web portal: //ura.go.ug

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This edition does not contain amendments effective 1st July 2012

TAXATION HANDBOOK A Guide to Taxation in Uganda

A Publication of Uganda Revenue Authority

Foreword ............................................................ vii Part A Background to Taxation ........................1

Income Tax .......................................... 17

Value Added Tax (VAT) ......................67

URA Toll-free Help line 0800-117000

Local Excise Duty .............................. 101

Non-Tax Revenue (NTR) ...................109

Customs ............................................ 119

Computation of Import Duty......................... y 141

10 Objections and Appeal .................................... 142

Special Features of the Taxes Administered by the URA ................. 143

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URA Toll-free Help line 0800-117000

Part A Background to Taxation

History of Taxation in East Africa

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Part A Background to Taxation

The Legality of Taxes collected by the Central Government

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URA Toll-free Help line 0800-117000

Part A Background to Taxation

URA Toll-free Help line 0800-117000

Part A Background to Taxation

The Structure of the Ugandan Tax System

President approves Parliaments bills

Enacts laws that guide URA in its operations. Approves policy.

Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development

URA Board Administration

Import duty. VAT on imports. Withholding tax on imports. Trade regulations.

VAT. Income Tax. Rental Tax. Excise Duty. Gaming Tax.

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Part A Background to Taxation

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Part A Background to Taxation

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Part B Income Tax

Denition of Key Terms

Part B Income Tax

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Part B Income Tax

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Part B Income Tax

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Part B Income Tax

who employs/remunerates an individual.

Employer means a person (individual or corporate)

An Employee is an individual engaged in an employment

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Part B Income Tax

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Part B Income Tax

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4. Exceeding ding S Shs 410,000.

Part B Income Tax

Employees Rights An employee:

PAYE worked examples

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Compute his monthly PAYE tax liability.