NamRa tax glitch flags returns
The Namibia Institute of Professional Accountants (NIPA) has cautioned taxpayers against resubmitting tax returns following an apparent system glitch on the integrated tax administration system (ITAS) that has caused previously filed returns to reflect as outstanding.
"The technical glitch has reportedly caused inadvertent changes to value-added tax (VAT) taxpayer categories—such as shifting taxpayers from Category A to Category B without authorisation. This error has triggered a domino effect, resulting in previously submitted and accepted VAT returns suddenly appearing as “outstanding” on the digital portal," the association said.
NIPA said that, based on cases forwarded to its Tax Committee, income tax returns may also be affected, with previously submitted returns similarly reflecting as outstanding.
"In addition, based on examples and cases that have been forwarded to the Tax Committee, it appears that Income Tax returns may also be affected, with previously submitted returns similarly reflecting as outstanding on the system," it said.
It said the matter is known to the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) and that official communication and guidance from the tax authority is expected in due course on the appropriate way forward.
In the meantime, the association advised members and taxpayers not to resubmit any VAT or income tax returns that were previously submitted and are now incorrectly reflected as outstanding. It said resubmissions could lead to duplication, penalties, or unintended compliance complications.
"In the interim, and to avoid duplication, penalties, or unintended compliance complications, members are strongly advised not to resubmit any VAT or Income Tax returns that were previously submitted and are now incorrectly reflected as outstanding, until such time as NamRA formally pronounces itself on the matter," it said.
NIPA said taxpayers who urgently require tax good standing or tax clearance certificates should engage NamRA directly to address their specific circumstances.
The association said its tax committee will continue to monitor the situation and will keep members informed as soon as further clarity or official guidance is received from NamRA.
