Yemisi

ICAN Launches Aviation Chapter to Strengthen Financial Expertise in Nigeria’s Aviation Sector

In a strategic move to enhance financial standards and deepen sector-specific expertise within Nigeria’s evolving aviation industry, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has officially inaugurated its specialized Aviation Chapter. This newly established platform is designed to unite ICAN members with experience and interest in aviation finance, creating a dynamic space for professional development, peer engagement, and strategic advocacy. The creation of the Aviation Chapter highlights the growing acknowledgment of the sector’s unique financial challenges and significant growth potential. ICAN aims to address these complexities through a focused, collaborative approach. “By bringing together our members with specialized knowledge, we aim to contribute significantly to the sector’s sustainable development and ensure adherence to the highest standards of financial management and corporate governance,” said John Italume of ICAN in an official statement. The Aviation Chapter is set to drive impactful initiatives centered on professional development, hosting targeted workshops, seminars, and training sessions that delve into the specific financial intricacies of the aviation industry. It will also promote best practices, cutting-edge research, and real-world insights among finance professionals embedded in aviation, while working closely with regulators and policymakers to offer informed perspectives on economic and financial matters affecting the sector. This proactive engagement is expected to support policy development that fosters long-term stability and sustainable growth in aviation. The chapter’s interim leadership includes distinguished chartered accountants with extensive backgrounds in aviation finance, airport operations, and strategic oversight. Ayodele Olatiregun will serve as the Pioneer Chairman, heading a team of accomplished executives and seasoned professionals from across Nigeria’s aviation landscape. The official launch event is slated for Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Victoria Garden Conference and Event Centre in Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos. The event is set to gather key stakeholders, including finance experts, aviation regulators, and top government officials, in a celebration of collaboration and forward-thinking leadership. With this initiative, ICAN is laying the groundwork for a more transparent, accountable, and resilient aviation sector. The Aviation Chapter stands as a beacon of progress—one that seeks to uplift the entire ecosystem by aligning financial best practices with the operational demands of a complex and rapidly growing industry. The integration of finance professionals into the heart of aviation decision-making has the potential to improve organizational performance, boost public trust, and enhance the overall efficiency of air travel in Nigeria—delivering benefits that ripple across businesses, individuals, and the national economy. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

ICAN Launches Aviation Chapter to Strengthen Financial Expertise in Nigeria’s Aviation Sector Read More »

FIRS Launches Strategic Recruitment Drive to Strengthen In-House Capacity

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has rolled out an ambitious recruitment initiative aimed at boosting its in-house workforce to 80% by the end of the current administration. This strategic move is designed to reduce dependence on external consultants and foster a more capable, self-reliant institution. A Key Pillar of the 2025 Strategic Roadmap This recruitment effort is a cornerstone of the FIRS 2025 Strategic Roadmap, which focuses on three core pillars: people, innovation, and operational excellence. By prioritizing internal capacity building, FIRS aims to improve service delivery, enhance institutional continuity, and cut operational costs. Diverse Opportunities Across Departments FIRS is opening up a wide range of positions in areas including: Transparent and Merit-Based Selection In line with its commitment to fairness and professionalism, the recruitment process will be guided by transparency and merit. A dedicated leadership team comprising senior FIRS officials will oversee the entire process to ensure integrity and accountability. Commitment to Employee Development Successful candidates can look forward to: These initiatives aim to nurture talent, foster a culture of learning, and equip employees with the tools they need to thrive in their roles. Join the Transformation This recruitment drive marks a significant shift towards institutional self-sufficiency and long-term sustainability. FIRS is calling on qualified and passionate individuals to apply and be part of this transformative journey. Ready to make a difference?Explore available opportunities and take the first step towards a fulfilling career with FIRS. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

FIRS Launches Strategic Recruitment Drive to Strengthen In-House Capacity Read More »

Finance Minister Defends VAT Hike, Warns of Serious Fiscal Consequences if Halted

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has defended the government’s decision to raise the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate by 0.5%, arguing that delaying or suspending the increase would have “severe and far-reaching” consequences for South Africa’s economy. In an affidavit submitted to the Western Cape Division of the High Court, Godongwana responded to legal challenges from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), both of which are seeking to block the VAT increase scheduled to take effect on May 1. He maintained that their applications lack merit. Godongwana warned that stopping the VAT hike would result in a R13.5 billion revenue shortfall, forcing the state to either slash spending or borrow more—both of which, he said, carry significant risks. “Government would be forced to cut spending or increase borrowing. Spending cuts would likely impact essential services like education, healthcare, housing, and social protection programmes, which would disproportionately harm the poor and vulnerable,” Godongwana stated. The DA is also contesting the constitutionality of section 7(4) of the VAT Act, which permits the finance minister to temporarily adjust the VAT rate. However, Godongwana argued that the DA’s interpretation is flawed. “This section does not allow the Finance Minister to amend section 7(1) of the Act. It merely provides temporary, conditional authority to adjust the VAT rate for up to 12 months, subject to Parliament’s legislative powers,” he clarified. He also dismissed the EFF’s legal bid as vague and unsupported, questioning whether the party aimed to interdict the National Treasury’s report referencing the VAT hike, or the hike itself. Godongwana emphasized that Parliament would still debate and vote on the proposed VAT increase, expressing confidence that it would pass as a necessary and responsible fiscal measure. “While tax increases are politically challenging, I believe Parliament will recognize this step as fiscally prudent when the proposed amendment is debated,” he said. He urged the court to reject the applications for an interim interdict, stating that the applicants have alternative remedies and that the balance of convenience leans heavily against halting the tax increase. “The DA still has recourse through Part B of its motion and may request appropriate relief if successful. There’s no justification for interim relief at this stage,” he argued. The court is expected to hear arguments from both parties on Tuesday. The ruling will determine whether the VAT increase proceeds as scheduled or is put on hold pending further judicial review. Both the DA and EFF are also challenging the adoption of the 2025 Fiscal Framework and Revenue Proposals, claiming that the legislative processes followed by the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces were fundamentally flawed and unlawful. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

Finance Minister Defends VAT Hike, Warns of Serious Fiscal Consequences if Halted Read More »

Tinubu Encounters Fiscal Hurdle as House of Reps Rejects Proposed VAT Hike

President Bola Tinubu’s effort to drive economic reform through a proposed increase in the Value-Added Tax (VAT) has suffered a major blow following rejection by the House of Representatives. The development not only exposes long-standing geopolitical tensions but also poses a threat to Nigeria’s fiscal outlook in 2025. The rejected plan sought to raise VAT from 7.5% to 10% in 2025 and further to 15% by 2030. Lawmakers pushed back over proposed adjustments to the VAT-sharing formula, fearing that the new revenue allocation would disproportionately favor the more industrialized southern states. Currently, VAT is distributed 50% equally among the 36 states, 30% by population and 20% by contribution to the pool. Tinubu’s plan sought to revise this to 20% equally, 20% by population and 60% by contribution. Northern lawmakers opposed this formula citing a potential loss in revenue, given the higher contribution from states like Lagos and Rivers. This fiscal pushback comes at a time when Nigeria’s budget is under increasing pressure and oil prices are dropping below the government’s benchmark of $75 per barrel due to global market disruptions tied to the US trade war, revenue shortfalls are imminent. Oil accounts for nearly half of government spending and is the main source of foreign exchange for the country. The VAT hike was the third pillar in Tinubu’s reform strategy following the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira. Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio stands at approximately 11%, one of the lowest globally. The proposed increase was designed to bolster non-oil revenue. Experts say the rejection of the VAT increase highlights the persistent divide between the north and south on revenue allocation and governance. The northern region, more populous but less industrialized, relies heavily on federal allocations and opposes reforms that appear to benefit the south. Vice President Kashim Shettima defended the broader economic reforms in a recent statement, asserting that “governance must deliver water, electricity, schools, roads and hospitals” rather than focus solely on federalism theory. He emphasised the government’s commitment to a bold but necessary path of reform. Despite the legislative hurdle, the government plans to intensify income tax reforms. The National Assembly has already approved measures to close loopholes and improve compliance. New rules target tax evaders and high-income earners while initiatives like rewarding renters for reporting landlords are expected to improve property tax collection. Abiodun Kayode-Alli, a senior manager in PwC’s tax and strategy unit, noted that “there’s a lot of wealthy Nigerians literally not paying taxes.” He said increasing enforcement and closing gaps in compliance could help offset VAT shortfalls. Analysts believe that while the VAT rejection represents a temporary fiscal obstacle, successful implementation of income tax reforms and enhanced enforcement may provide alternative revenue streams. However, with Brent crude trading at about $65 per barrel, $10 short of budget expectations, Nigeria’s fiscal space remains constrained. The Senate is expected to deliberate on the VAT proposal after Easter. Analysts anticipate a similar rejection unless major compromises are introduced. Meanwhile, Tinubu’s economic team must reassess its strategies to sustain fiscal stability amid weakening oil revenues and geopolitical pushback from within the National Assembly. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

Tinubu Encounters Fiscal Hurdle as House of Reps Rejects Proposed VAT Hike Read More »

FIRS Sets N25.2 Trillion Revenue Target for 2025

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has announced a projected revenue target of N25.2 trillion for 2025, reflecting a significant increase from the N21.6 trillion collected in 2024. This ambitious target highlights the Service’s ongoing efforts to strengthen government revenue through improved tax administration and strategic reforms. FIRS Executive Chairman, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, made this known during the opening of a two-day workshop themed “Tax Expenditure and its Effects on Government Revenue.” Represented by Bola Akintola, Coordinating Director of the Corporate Services Group, Adedeji noted that the FIRS continues to face mounting pressure to generate more revenue, especially as contributions from certain Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) continue to decline. He revealed that the Service currently contributes an average of over 60 percent of the total monthly inflow to the Federation Account, attributing this performance to a range of proactive policy decisions and reform initiatives that have been implemented in recent years. However, he also pointed out the growing concern over revenue loss linked to tax incentives, which he said remain difficult to quantify due to a lack of reliable data. This issue underscores the importance of developing stronger mechanisms for tracking and evaluating tax expenditure. In a paper titled “Nigerian Experience in Tax Expenditure Reporting – Achievements and Challenges,” Ikata Oyekuodi John, Head of Tax Expenditure Management at FIRS, explained that effective fiscal policy requires a delicate balance between offering tax incentives and maintaining consistent, sustainable revenue generation. He emphasized that tax expenditure reporting plays a crucial role in assessing the cost and impact of incentive policies, helping to guide better decision-making. As FIRS looks toward 2025, its focus remains on enhancing transparency, improving data-driven reporting, and ensuring that Nigeria’s tax system supports long-term economic stability. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

FIRS Sets N25.2 Trillion Revenue Target for 2025 Read More »

ICAN, NGX RegCo Emphasize the Importance of Transparent Corporate Reporting

Introduction In a strong statement of intent to strengthen investor confidence in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and NGX Regulation Limited (NGX RegCo) have reaffirmed the pivotal role of transparency and accountability in attracting both local and foreign investment. The message was clear: without open and responsible corporate reporting, sustainable economic growth remains elusive. This position was emphasized during the second edition of the ICAN-NGX RegCo Corporate Reporting Award, held recently in Lagos. Transparency: A Key Driver of Economic Integrity During the event, ICAN’s 59th President, Davidson Alaribe, highlighted the growing demand for businesses to go beyond traditional financial disclosures. According to Alaribe, the health of a nation’s economy is deeply tied to the openness and integrity of its corporate reporting standards. “Our economy’s credibility hinges on transparent reporting practices,” Alaribe stated. “We must continue to foster a culture of openness and accountability, not only to meet regulatory obligations but to build a more resilient future for Nigeria’s corporate sector.” Recognizing Excellence in Reporting The ICAN-NGX RegCo Corporate Reporting Award celebrates companies that exemplify best practices in financial reporting, governance, and sustainability. This year’s edition assessed Nigeria’s 30 most capitalised listed companies, evaluating them on the basis of financial transparency, ESG metrics, and corporate governance. Award Highlights: Additional recognitions were presented for sector-specific excellence and most improved performance in reporting and compliance. A Call for ESG Accountability Alaribe emphasized that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure has evolved from a corporate trend into a business imperative. He urged companies to commit to ethical, sustainable business practices that go beyond profit-making. “As we honour today’s winners, we must also recommit ourselves to the principles of transparency and sustainability—values that will shape the next chapter of Nigeria’s economic journey,” he said. NGX RegCo: Guardians of Market Integrity Olufemi Shobanjo, CEO of NGX RegCo, reinforced the centrality of corporate reporting in maintaining market stability and building investor trust. “Corporate reporting is more than a compliance requirement,” Shobanjo explained. “It is the heartbeat of a transparent market, instilling confidence in investors, shareholders, and the wider public.” He added that this year’s award recipients have set a benchmark for others to follow, demonstrating the positive impact of transparency on corporate reputation and investor appeal. Conclusion The message from the ICAN-NGX RegCo Corporate Reporting Award is loud and clear: transparency, accountability, and sustainability are not optional—they are the bedrock of a thriving capital market. As businesses navigate a more complex global landscape, their commitment to these principles will determine their relevance, resilience, and long-term success. Companies across Nigeria are encouraged to take this call seriously—not just to win awards, but to lead responsibly and earn lasting trust in the eyes of the world. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

ICAN, NGX RegCo Emphasize the Importance of Transparent Corporate Reporting Read More »

Oyo State Government Implements New Law Requiring Traders and Artisans to Pay Tax

Introduction: The Oyo State Government has recently introduced a new tax law that will require traders and artisans to pay taxes. This new regulation aims to generate revenue for the state, while also ensuring that all sectors contribute to the development and growth of the region. The implementation of this law is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, as it will now include more businesses, particularly small and medium-scale traders and artisans. The New Tax Law: In a move to boost the state’s economy, the Oyo State Government has mandated that traders, artisans, and other small-scale businesses begin to pay taxes under the new legislation. The law is designed to streamline the taxation process and make it more inclusive of the various informal businesses that are prevalent within the state. This new law aims to promote fairness, as it ensures that all businesses, big or small, contribute their fair share to the state’s resources. Traders and artisans will now be expected to register with the appropriate tax authorities and pay the taxes levied on their income and business activities. Why the Law Was Introduced: The introduction of this tax law is a response to the need for increased revenue generation within the state. By including traders and artisans in the tax net, the government seeks to improve public infrastructure, provide essential services, and boost the overall development of Oyo State. This law is part of the state’s broader strategy to modernize its tax system, improve governance, and ensure the equitable distribution of resources across different sectors of the economy. How It Will Affect Traders and Artisans: Traders and artisans in Oyo State will need to understand the details of the new tax requirements to ensure compliance. The government is expected to provide guidelines on the tax rates and processes for registration. This could also provide an opportunity for many small businesses to access government services and programs aimed at boosting their operations. For traders and artisans, paying taxes can also lead to certain benefits, such as greater access to public services and infrastructure improvements, which can, in turn, support their businesses. Conclusion: As Oyo State continues to evolve and grow, the introduction of the new tax law represents an important step towards a more structured and sustainable economy. Traders and artisans are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the law’s provisions to ensure smooth compliance and contribute to the development of the state. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

Oyo State Government Implements New Law Requiring Traders and Artisans to Pay Tax Read More »

Edo: Private school owners protest 400% increase in tax.

Private school owners in Edo State staged a peaceful protest in Benin on Friday, voicing their concerns over what they described as an “alarming increase” in personal income taxes imposed by the state government. Operating under the Coalition of Associations of Private Schools (CAPS), the school proprietors gathered at the Ministry of Education, carrying placards and banners to express their grievances. CAPS includes the Association of Private School Owners of Nigeria (APSON), Association of Formidable Education Development (AFED), National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), and the Association of Islamic Model Schools. The protesters called for the reversal of a tax hike they claimed ranged from 200% to 400%, labeling it as punitive and unsustainable. Dr. Ohis-Olakhe Emmanuel, Chairman of the coalition and leader of the protest, explained that the group had explored all avenues for dialogue before resorting to the demonstration. Emmanuel stated, “Private schools not only complement government efforts in the education sector, but also serve as major employers of labor. With this increase, over 300,000 teachers could lose their jobs, along with many vendors and service providers who rely on schools for their livelihoods.” He criticized the tax calculation method, which was based on a per-student estimate of N30,000 to N35,000, despite many schools charging much less. Emmanuel emphasized that taxes should be based on profit, not gross income, given the operational expenses schools face. Dr. Austin Igbasan, Secretary of the coalition, warned that the tax increase could have far-reaching consequences, including school closures, job losses, and a rise in out-of-school children, particularly in low-income families. Oladele Ogundele, Secretary of AFED, echoed these concerns and called for a unified tax system for school owners. He pointed out various levies on schools, such as personal income tax, PAYE for staff, renewal fees, environmental and health certificates, signage fees, and tenement rates. Ogundele remarked, “Education is a social service and should be supported, not taxed to extinction. The Nigerian Constitution and the Universal Basic Education Act emphasize free and compulsory education, and this level of taxation contradicts that principle.” In response, the Edo State Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, assured the protesters that the government would review their concerns. He promised to arrange a meeting with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) to address the issues raised. “Taxes are essential for the government to fulfill its obligations, but we will ensure that schools are not overburdened,” Iyamu said. He also urged schools failing to meet minimum standards to take corrective actions, warning that strict enforcement measures would soon be implemented. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

Edo: Private school owners protest 400% increase in tax. Read More »

Naira concludes the week on a strong note, closing at N1,626.00/$1 in the official market.

The Nigerian naira made a slight gain against the US dollar in the official foreign exchange market, closing the week at N1,626.00/$1 on Friday. This marks an improvement compared to Thursday’s rate of N1,630.50/$1, according to data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The week ended on a relatively positive note after a period of volatility, with the local currency experiencing fluctuations between gains and losses. At the start of the week, the naira opened at N1,629.00/$1 on Monday, strengthened slightly to N1,615.00/$1 on Tuesday, but weakened to N1,644.00/$1 by Wednesday. It recovered to N1,630.50/$1 on Thursday before closing stronger at N1,626.00/$1 on Friday. Despite some mid-week depreciation, the naira managed to recover some of its losses, reflecting a slight but positive sentiment among investors in the official market. Parallel Market Movement In the parallel (black) market, the naira saw mild fluctuations but remained largely stable throughout the week. It closed at N1,624.35/$1 on Friday, a slight drop from N1,621/$1 on Thursday. The naira opened the week on Tuesday at N1,585/$1, appreciated slightly to N1,580/$1 on Wednesday, but weakened to N1,621/$1 on Thursday, before further depreciating to N1,624.35/$1 on Friday. The divergence between the official and parallel market rates is attributed to ongoing demand pressures, FX illiquidity, and speculative trading behavior. Cross-Currency Performance At the close of trading on Friday, the naira was valued at N1,591.85/$1 according to the CBN. Against other major currencies, the naira traded at N2,090.57/£1 and N1,815.82/€1. The CBN continues to implement intervention measures to stabilize the foreign exchange market, including weekly sales to Bureau De Change operators and efforts to increase FX supply from non-oil sources. Experts’ Insights Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe, President of the Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), attributes the ongoing forex volatility to a mix of local and global uncertainties. Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), links the naira’s recent struggles to both global factors and speculative pressures. Other analysts suggest the naira may continue to trade within a narrow range in the coming week, depending on the level of FX liquidity provided by the CBN and foreign inflows into the Nigerian economy. However, they emphasize that sustained efforts to unify rates and curb speculation are critical for achieving long-term currency stability. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

Naira concludes the week on a strong note, closing at N1,626.00/$1 in the official market. Read More »

7 Essential Personal Finance Tasks to Tackle in April 2025: From Tax Planning to Investing

In the ever-evolving world of finance, what worked in the past may not necessarily work in the present or future. It’s important to regularly reassess your financial strategies and make adjustments as needed, either independently or with the help of a professional financial planner. The start of a new financial year is the perfect time to do this. As we kick off the Financial Year 2025-26 on April 1, now is the ideal opportunity to get your financial affairs in order. Below, we’ve outlined seven personal finance tasks that you should consider tackling this April. While many of us focus on tax savings and new investment opportunities, it’s equally important to review your overall financial strategy as the new financial year begins. Take time to assess your budget—this can help you identify areas where you can cut unnecessary expenses, fix any errors from the previous year, and increase your savings. Additionally, revisiting your financial goals will ensure you’re on track to meet them. If not, consider adjusting your strategies or consulting a financial planner for guidance. April is the perfect time to start planning your taxes for the upcoming year. With the recent changes in the Budget 2025, including updates to the new tax regime, it’s important to reassess your tax strategy. For instance, if your income is under ₹12 lakh, you may not need to make certain tax-saving investments you previously did under the old tax regime. While you now have the flexibility to direct your funds differently, it’s essential to make thoughtful choices when it comes to tax-saving investments. To avoid unnecessary TDS deductions on your interest income, consider submitting Form 15G or Form 15H. Form 15G is available to individuals under 60 years of age with no taxable income, while Form 15H is for those over 60. Submitting these forms can help reduce TDS deductions on your income, but be sure to check if you’re eligible to file them. If you regularly invest a lump sum in schemes like the Public Provident Fund (PPF) and the National Pension System (NPS), consider making your investments in the first week of April. This allows you to earn interest for the entire year in PPF and potentially benefit from better returns in NPS, especially after recent market corrections. However, keep in mind that these investments won’t help with tax deductions under the new tax regime, so make sure your investment strategy aligns with your overall financial goals. April is an excellent time to begin preparing for your Income Tax Return (ITR) filing for the assessment year 2025-26 (for income earned in FY 2024-25). The deadline for filing ITR is July 31, 2025, for those whose accounts don’t need auditing. If you’re a salaried employee, you’ll need to wait for Form 16 from your employer (typically available after June 15), but in the meantime, you can start gathering other income proofs, such as capital gains, rental income, and professional income. It’s also helpful to organize your tax-saving investment documents and consult a tax expert if you have foreign income to report. Akshaya Tritiya, which falls on April 30, 2025, is traditionally a time for purchasing gold. If you’re buying gold for religious or spiritual reasons, go ahead with confidence. However, if you’re considering it as an investment, be cautious. Gold prices have surged significantly over the past year, and it’s important not to overexpose yourself to the yellow metal. Ideally, no more than 10% of your investment portfolio should be in gold. Finally, a more enjoyable task—plan your summer vacation! Whether you’re traveling with family or solo, booking your travel tickets early can save you a significant amount of money. Last-minute bookings often lead to inflated prices for flights and hotels, so it’s wise to plan ahead and secure better deals. By addressing these tasks early in the new financial year, you’ll set yourself up for a more organized and financially secure year ahead. Don’t wait until the end of the year—start now to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead! For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036

7 Essential Personal Finance Tasks to Tackle in April 2025: From Tax Planning to Investing Read More »

Loading...