Tax return in the UAE and especially in season can be a daunting task, but with proper preparation, it doesn’t have to be. If you’re a taxpayer in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), this guide will help you navigate the process from start to finish. From gathering the necessary documents to submitting your tax return, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding the Tax System in the UAE
Before you start preparing your tax return, it’s essential to understand the tax system in the UAE. The UAE implemented a value-added tax (VAT) system on January 1, 2018. This tax is imposed on most goods and services in the country, with a standard rate of 5%. Some goods and services are exempt from VAT, including basic food items, healthcare services, and education services.

Gather Your Documents
To file your tax return, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents. These may include:

• Your Emirates ID
• Your business trade license (if you’re a business owner)
• Invoices and receipts for goods and services bought and sold during the tax period
• Bank statements
• Any other relevant financial records

Make sure to keep these documents organized and easily accessible, so you don’t waste time searching for them when you need them.

Determine Your Taxable Supplies and Purchases
Before you can file your tax return, you’ll need to determine your taxable supplies and purchases. Taxable supplies are the goods and services you sold during the tax period, while taxable purchases are the goods and services you bought during the same period. You’ll need to separate these supplies and purchases into standard-rated (5%) and zero-rated (0%) categories.

Calculate Your Taxable Amount
Once you’ve determined your taxable supplies and purchases, you’ll need to calculate your taxable amount. To do this, subtract your zero-rated supplies and purchases from your total taxable supplies and purchases. This will give you your taxable amount.

Calculate Your VAT
After calculating your taxable amount, you’ll need to calculate your VAT. Multiply your taxable amount by 5% (the standard VAT rate in the UAE) to get your VAT amount.

Submit Your Tax Return
After completing all the necessary calculations, you’re ready to submit your tax return. You can do this online using the Federal Tax Authority’s (FTA) e-Services portal. Log in to the portal, select “Submit a Tax Return,” and follow the prompts to complete your submission. Make sure to double-check all your calculations and information before submitting your return to avoid any mistakes.

Pay Your VAT
If you owe VAT after submitting your tax return, you’ll need to pay it to the FTA. You can do this online using the e-Dirham payment system or through a bank transfer. The deadline for paying VAT is usually the same as the deadline for submitting your tax return.

Keep Records
After submitting your tax return and paying any VAT owed, make sure to keep all your records and receipts in a safe place. You’ll need these records in case of an audit or if you need to file an amended tax return.

Know the Deadlines
It’s important to be aware of the tax filing deadlines in the UAE to avoid any penalties. The tax period in the UAE is typically a quarter (three months), and the tax return and VAT payment deadline is usually the 28th day of the month following the end of the tax period. For example, if the tax period is January to March, the tax return and VAT payment deadline is April 28th.

Consider Hiring a Tax Consultant
If you’re unsure about any part of the tax filing process, it may be helpful to hire a tax consultant. A tax consultant can help you understand the tax system and ensure that your tax return is accurate and complete. They can also assist with any tax-related questions or concerns you may have.

Keep Up-to-Date with Tax Law Changes
Tax laws in the UAE are subject to change, and it’s important to keep up-to-date with any new regulations or requirements. The FTA regularly updates its website with new information and resources, so it’s a good idea to check the site regularly or sign up for email alerts.

Use Accounting Software
Using accounting software can make the tax filing process much more manageable. Accounting software can help you keep track of your taxable supplies and purchases, calculate your VAT, and generate financial reports that can be used for your tax return. Many accounting software programs are available online, making it easy to access your financial information from anywhere.

Don’t Forget About Input Tax
Input tax is the VAT that you paid on goods and services that you used in your business. You can deduct input tax from your output tax (the VAT that you charged your customers) to calculate your net VAT owed. It’s important to keep track of your input tax, as it can significantly reduce your VAT liability.

Keep Records of Intra-GCC Supplies
If you’re involved in the supply of goods and services between GCC countries, it’s important to keep records of these supplies. The FTA requires businesses to report intra-GCC supplies on their tax returns, and failure to do so can result in penalties.

Check Your Taxable Supplies and Expenses
To prepare your tax return in the UAE, you’ll need to gather information about your taxable supplies and expenses. Taxable supplies are goods or services that you sell that are subject to VAT, while expenses are costs that you incur while running your business. Make sure you have accurate records of all your taxable supplies and expenses for the tax period.

Understand Zero-Rated and Exempt Supplies
In the UAE, certain supplies are either zero-rated or exempt from VAT. Zero-rated supplies are still subject to VAT, but the VAT rate is 0%, while exempt supplies are not subject to VAT at all. It’s important to understand the difference between these types of supplies and ensure that you’re correctly identifying and reporting them on your tax return.

Calculate Your Taxable Sales and VAT Liability
Once you have all the information about your taxable supplies and expenses, you’ll need to calculate your taxable sales and your VAT liability. To do this, you’ll need to subtract your input tax from your output tax, and then report the resulting amount on your tax return. You can use accounting software or consult with a tax professional to help you with this calculation.

Check for Errors and Inconsistencies
Before submitting your tax return, it’s important to check for any errors or inconsistencies. Double-check all the figures and make sure you haven’t missed any important information. You can also ask a tax consultant to review your tax return to ensure that everything is accurate and complete.

File Your Tax Return Online
In the UAE, tax returns must be filed online using the FTA’s e-Services portal. Make sure you have an account and that you’re registered for VAT before filing your tax return. You’ll also need to pay any VAT owed by the deadline to avoid penalties.

Keep Your Records Organized
It’s important to keep your records organized and accessible in case of an audit or any other issue that may arise. Keep copies of your tax returns, invoices, receipts, and other financial documents in a secure location. You can also use accounting software to help you keep track of your records and financial information.

In summary, preparing your tax return in the UAE requires careful planning and attention to detail. By knowing the deadlines, considering hiring a tax consultant, keeping up-to-date with tax law changes, using accounting software, not forgetting about input tax, and keeping records of intra-GCC supplies, you can ensure that your tax return is accurate and complete. Don’t hesitate to seek help or guidance if you need it, and always keep your records organized and accessible.

In conclusion, preparing your tax return in the UAE may seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it can be a straightforward process. By understanding the tax system, gathering the necessary documents, and accurately calculating your taxable amount and VAT, you can file your tax return with confidence. Don’t forget to pay any VAT owed and keep all your records and receipts in a safe place for future reference.