Tax department extends office hours

The tax administration services department said it has put several measures in place in anticipation of a rush on its offices.



This as taxpayers seek to take advantage of the 100 percent tax waiver, which comes to an end today.



In April, the government announced that it would be offering a 100 percent wavier on penalties and interest across all tax types at reducing rates, once the principal sum owed is paid in full.



The tax department said since the announcement of the tax amnesty on April 11, more than $2.8 billion have been collected in outstanding taxes.



Director of Public Relations at the tax department, Merris Haughton, said the tax department is expecting a rush on its offices today and has decided to extend its opening hours until 5 p.m.



She said among the offices to be opened for an extra hour are those in the Corporate Area, Spanish Town, Montego Bay and Mandeville.



As of tomorrow, the income tax threshold will be increased.



Ms. Haughton said the income tax threshold would move from the current tax-free amount of $193,440 to $200,304.



This means that persons should now benefit from a tax-free income of $16,692.



She said the increase is in keeping with the measures announced in the April budget.