Filing taxes on time is more than just a legal obligation, it’s a smart financial habit that protects businesses from penalties, interest charges, and unnecessary stress. With the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) announcing that the 2025 tax filing season has commenced, its game on.
Here’s how you can stay organized and meet your tax deadlines with confidence:
1. Know the key dates
Start by marking the tax season on your calendar. The BURS filing window, from 1 July to 30 September 2025, is your timeframe to submit returns.
Please note that the deadline for submitting annual returns for PAYE and Other Withholding Tax is 31 July. That means for employers, all the ITW8s must be printed and a copy handed to employees. The beauty of technology is that all these can be submitted online. You can do it anywhere, anytime as long as you have access to the internet.
The submission of income tax is 4 months after the year end. For those with the financial year ending 30 June, it means the deadline for the annual income tax submission is 31 October. For individuals who earn above P480,000 per annum or who have sources of income apart from employment, the mandatory submission period is 1 July – 30 September.
Please don’t wait for the deadline to submit. The system is normally overloaded on these dates. If you miss the deadline, penalties start kicking in.
2. File all supporting documents
The law requires you to keep all the financial information used for tax for a minimum of 7 years. Please make sure you have all the relevant information on file in case it is requested.
3. Use a personalized checklist
Create a checklist tailored to an individual or business financial situation. This results in not missing any critical documents or steps in the filing process.
4. Set smart reminders
Use your phone or calendar app to set reminders for key milestones, like when to start preparing, when to consult a tax expert, and when to file.
5. Double-check everything
Before submitting, review your return for accuracy. Mistakes can lead to delays or audits, so it’s worth taking the time to verify all entries. The beauty of the current BURS system is that it requires you to review before submitting. It also allows you to save a draft for future reference. How smart and cool is that!
6. File online for speed and accuracy
Take advantage of electronic filing systems. It is not only fast & secure, it allows you to correct errors, saves time and paper. It is the smart thing to do.
7. Get expert support
Tax rules can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Reach out to experts. Not only does it save you time, but they can also assist with tax planning and submission. Whether it’s organizing your documents, calculating your tax liability, or filing on your behalf, they’ve got you covered.
8. Keep your records safe
After filing, it is a good idea to keep a copy of your submission. There have been many instances where records have been dropped on the BURS system, and one has been required to provide a copy. Don’t be found wanting.
Let Addmath take the stress out of tax season
At Addmath, we understand that tax season can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer tailored tax solutions to help you stay compliant and stress-free. From planning to submission, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Why wait? Call Addmath today and make tax season a breeze.