The Egyptian Tax Authority has introduced a new system allowing citizens to appeal their property tax assessments. Dr. Fadaa Fouad, Deputy Head of the authority, explained that the system is part of a national project to establish a unified property identification number. This number will be used to access property data and calculate tax liabilities. The authority has also developed an electronic application to facilitate the process.
The electronic application has a built-in map that allows citizens to select the location of their property and access its associated data. However, some citizens have reported difficulties in using the map. In response, the authority has introduced an alternative method for citizens to enter their property data manually. The authority will then verify the data and confirm it with the citizen.
The new system also allows citizens to apply the principle of "عفا الله عما سلف" or "God has forgiven what has passed." This means that if a citizen has not previously been notified of their tax liability, they can submit a tax return and start anew without being penalized for previous years. However, this is subject to the citizen submitting a tax return.
The authority has set fixed amounts that can be paid under the tax account. These amounts range from 200 to 1,000 Egyptian pounds, depending on the type of property. These payments are considered advances against the tax liability due on January 1, 2027. The authority has aimed to make these amounts affordable to increase the number of citizens eligible for additional discounts.
The authority uses a pricing map to evaluate property values. This map divides Egypt into homogeneous areas and uses data from various sources, including sales values, rental contracts, and government and non-government sources. The goal is to establish average property values within each area.
Citizens have the right to appeal their tax assessments if they believe they are unfair or inaccurate. The authority has established a neutral committee to review appeals. This committee can confirm, modify, or cancel the tax assessment. The government has no right to appeal the committee's decision.
The new system aims to provide a fair and transparent way for citizens to fulfill their tax obligations. The authority encourages citizens to use the electronic application and appeal process to ensure accurate tax assessments. The system is part of a broader effort to modernize Egypt's tax system and improve taxpayer services.
Key points
- Egyptian citizens can now appeal their property tax assessments through a neutral committee.
- The authority has introduced an electronic application to facilitate the tax assessment and appeal process.
- Citizens can apply the principle of "عفا الله عما سلف" or "God has forgiven what has passed" if they have not previously been notified of their tax liability.
