With just a week to go before the March 15 deadline for filing income tax returns, the Tax Administration Directorate is encouraging persons who need assistance in filing their returns to use its toll free helpline, 1-888-TAX-HELP (1-888-829-4357).

According to taxpayer information specialist at the Tax Helpline, Nadia Williams, the toll-free service allows persons to ask questions relating to any local tax matter, including income tax, GCT, property tax, transfer tax, motor vehicle licence fee and stamp duty.

A call made by The Gleaner to the toll-free helpline last week was answered on the first ring.

"We are able to answer any question which you may be trying to get answered by calling the tax office directly," she said, adding that individuals who are uncertain about any tax issue should call the helpline before going to the tax office in order to avoid having to make more than one trip.

"We do calculations and we also check the act for you and tell you the references in the relevant act. We will also send you copies of written information via fax or email," she informed.

Tax specialists

Additionally, Mrs. Williams noted that the tax specialists would also help persons to identify the correct form that they should use when filing their returns, as well as assist them to complete the forms over the telephone.

Mrs. Williams explained that, if the line were busy, persons would be greeted by the answering machine, which gives them the opportunity to leave a message.

"We would either return your call the same day the message is left or the following day, depending on the volume of calls," she said.