Ghana Tax Compliance: Key GRA Deadlines and Penalty Avoidance

Staying compliant with GRA deadlines is one of the most important responsibilities for any taxpayer in Ghana. Missing deadlines leads to penalties, interest charges, and potential enforcement action.

Monthly Deadlines

• PAYE remittance — Due by the 15th of the following month
• Withholding tax remittance — Due by the 15th of the following month
• VAT returns — Due by the last working day of the following month

Quarterly Deadlines

• Provisional tax (installment payments) — Due quarterly for businesses with annual tax liability above GHS 2,000

Annual Deadlines

• Individual income tax returns — Due by 30th April
• Corporate income tax returns — Due within 4 months of financial year end
• Annual PAYE reconciliation — Due by 28th February

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Late filing penalty — GHS 500 per month or part thereof
• Late payment interest — 125% of the statutory rate (Bank of Ghana rate) per annum on unpaid tax
• Failure to withhold — The withholding agent becomes liable for the full amount plus penalties
• Failure to register for VAT — Back-assessment plus penalties

How to Stay Compliant

- Use the Nexus Tax Compliance Calendar to track all deadlines - Set up reminders at least 7 days before each deadline - Keep organized records throughout the year, not just at filing time - Consider making provisional payments to avoid large year-end bills - Consult a tax professional if your situation is complex