Taxpayers Urged To Settle Overdue Accounts
The Office of the Tax Commissioner [OTC] is “encouraging all taxpayers with overdue accounts to take immediate action to settle their outstanding taxes.”
A Government spokesperson said, “This reminder aligns with the goals set forth in the 2023-24 Budget Statement, emphasizing the importance of timely tax payments to support Bermuda’s essential services.”
Premier and Minister of Finance, David Burt, underscores the significance of tax compliance, “In Bermuda, paying taxes is vital for the government’s ability to provide essential services to the public. Tax revenues support governmental operations, funding critical initiatives ranging from education and healthcare to infrastructure development and public safety. These funds enable the government to maintain and enhance vital services that contribute to the well-being and prosperity of our residents. Thus, the conscientious fulfilment of tax obligations by individuals and businesses in Bermuda is not merely a legal requirement but a fundamental civic responsibility that underpins the functioning of society and the advancement of the common good.”
The Government spokesperson said, “The OTC is taking proactive measures to address delinquent tax accounts. Those persons who have not established payment arrangements with the OTC, will have their files forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions for consideration of further legal action as stipulated by the Taxes Management Act 1976. Through ongoing communication and proactive outreach, the government aims to ensure a fair and efficient tax collection system that benefits the entire community.
“If your account is delinquent, we urge you to make payment promptly. The OTC offers payment plans for those needing assistance to facilitate the settlement of obligations. Taxpayers can contact the Debt Collection unit at 297-7754, option 5, or email at taxenquiry@gov.bm for further assistance.
“For more information or to discuss payment arrangements, please call 297-7754 option 5 for Debt Collection or via email at taxenquiry@gov.bm.”
Urging people to pay their taxes will be just as effective as urging people to obey the traffic laws (or suggestions, as they now are).
Pay your taxes so the Government can waste the money on unnecessary foreign travel, first-class flights & hotels & limo services, electric cars, raises for do the bare minimum amount of work employees, not invest in infrastructure, and consultants. Feel free to reply with your own observations.
On a positive note, people in the Office of the Tax Commissioner are actually friendly and accommodating to your financial situation. Payment plans can be worked out. Better some money is coming in than not.
Telling that tax paid by Bermudians is reliant on the person(s) responding to a request for tax. Sounds rather like the messages to slow down on the roads, when the speed limit is 35kph but is really 50+.Threaten legal enforcement for tax collection? Pointless as people know how the court system operates.
Wouldn’t mind paying so much if Government was giving value for money.