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Zimra wants Zimbabwe churches to 'Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar'
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The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has announced plans to hold a stakeholder engagement with churches to discuss tax compliance across various applicable categories, aiming to enhance transparency and ensure better adherence to tax regulations within the religious sector.
In a public notice issued on December 11, 2024, ZIMRA reminded churches of key tax guidelines and urged them to ensure full compliance with tax laws. The notice clarified that income from donations, tithes, offerings, and other voluntary contributions remains exempt from income tax, as does non-trading income such as investments conducted on behalf of the church or its institutions.
However, ZIMRA pointed out that income generated from trading activities is subject to taxation. This includes revenue from the sale of church-branded merchandise, literature, music, as well as meals, clothing, and similar items. Additionally, such sales may attract Value Added Tax (VAT) depending on the volume and thresholds.
The tax authority also stressed the importance of churches registering for applicable taxes, submitting outstanding returns, and making payments within the specified deadlines to avoid penalties and interest charges. Churches were encouraged to use the TaRMS Self-Service Portal and ZIMRA's Self-Service Centres to facilitate the filing of returns and payments.
In its notice, ZIMRA emphasized the importance of voluntary compliance, stating, "By staying compliant, you contribute to a fair and sustainable tax system that supports national development."
Further information regarding the date and venue for the upcoming stakeholder engagement will be communicated in due course. The initiative reflects ZIMRA's commitment to improving tax compliance across all sectors, including religious organizations, as part of efforts to ensure a fair and equitable tax system in Zimbabwe.
In a public notice issued on December 11, 2024, ZIMRA reminded churches of key tax guidelines and urged them to ensure full compliance with tax laws. The notice clarified that income from donations, tithes, offerings, and other voluntary contributions remains exempt from income tax, as does non-trading income such as investments conducted on behalf of the church or its institutions.
However, ZIMRA pointed out that income generated from trading activities is subject to taxation. This includes revenue from the sale of church-branded merchandise, literature, music, as well as meals, clothing, and similar items. Additionally, such sales may attract Value Added Tax (VAT) depending on the volume and thresholds.
The tax authority also stressed the importance of churches registering for applicable taxes, submitting outstanding returns, and making payments within the specified deadlines to avoid penalties and interest charges. Churches were encouraged to use the TaRMS Self-Service Portal and ZIMRA's Self-Service Centres to facilitate the filing of returns and payments.
In its notice, ZIMRA emphasized the importance of voluntary compliance, stating, "By staying compliant, you contribute to a fair and sustainable tax system that supports national development."
Further information regarding the date and venue for the upcoming stakeholder engagement will be communicated in due course. The initiative reflects ZIMRA's commitment to improving tax compliance across all sectors, including religious organizations, as part of efforts to ensure a fair and equitable tax system in Zimbabwe.
Source - online
