The 2025 Finance Law introduces specific deadlines and responsibilities for non-professional taxpayers when it comes to filing their annual income tax returns. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what’s expected and avoid penalties.
Who Needs to File a Tax Return?
If you earn passive income, you’re required to file an annual income tax return. This includes:
- Salaries and wages
- Pensions and life annuities
- Income from stocks, shares, or other securities
- Rental income or other property-related earnings
Deadlines for Filing Income Tax Returns
To make things easier, the government has set deadlines based on your employment sector:
- Public Sector Employees & Dignitaries
- Deadline: 31 July each year
- Example: A teacher in a government school must file by this date.
- Private Sector Employees (Large and Medium Enterprises)
- Deadline: 30 September each year
- Example: If you work for a multinational company in Cameroon, this applies to you.
- All Other Individuals
- Deadline: 31 October each year
- Example: Freelancers, landlords, or retirees fall under this category.
Your Employer’s Responsibility
Employers or anyone paying you must give you a detailed summary of your earnings and tax deductions by 15 March of each year. This helps you accurately report your income. Failure by the employer to provide this summary may result in penalties.
Example:
If you’re a graphic designer working with multiple clients, each client must provide you with a breakdown of payments and tax deductions made.
How to File Your Return
- Organize Your Documents: Gather your income statements, rental agreements, and any dividend records.
- Use Digital Tools: Tools like Excel for Small Business Management can simplify tracking income and expenses. Check out our training here.
- Visit Your Tax Centre: Submit your annual tax return to the tax office in your area of residence.
What Happens If You Don’t File?
Missing the deadline or failing to file can result in penalties under Section M 104 of the Manual of Tax Procedures. Don’t risk it—file early and ensure compliance.
Need Help with Your Taxes?
Filing tax returns doesn’t have to be stressful. At OpenHub Consulting, we offer Small Business Tax Management Services to make the process easy for you. Learn more here.
Pro Tip: Stay Ahead of Tax Season
- Mark Your Calendar: Set reminders for your filing deadline.
- Keep Accurate Records: Use tools like Kola Business Manager for easy tracking. Learn more here.
- Stay Informed: Download the 2024 General Tax Code of Cameroon for reference here.
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