The Value Added Tax (VAT) Management Division under the National Board of Revenue has extended the deadline for submitting online VAT returns for the month of March, moving the cut-off date to 23 April.
Previously, VAT-registered businesses were required to submit their monthly returns by the 15th of the following month. Under the earlier schedule, the return for March transactions was therefore due by mid-April. However, the revised decision grants taxpayers additional time beyond the original deadline.
An official notification issued on Tuesday confirmed that the extension has been granted in the public interest. The announcement cited two primary reasons: the public holidays associated with the Bengali New Year and temporary disruptions linked to technical upgrades and maintenance work in the electronic VAT (e-VAT) system.
The authorities emphasised that the decision was taken to facilitate smooth compliance for taxpayers while ensuring continued improvements in the digital tax administration system. According to officials, the ongoing enhancements are intended to make the online VAT platform more efficient, stable, and user-friendly in the long run, even though short-term inconveniences may arise during the upgrade phase.
Under the Value Added Tax and Supplementary Duty Act, 2012, registered businesses are legally required to submit monthly returns within the prescribed deadline, including detailed records of sales, purchases, and applicable tax obligations. Failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe may result in financial penalties and other regulatory consequences.
The extension has been welcomed by many business stakeholders, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, who often face operational difficulties during peak festive periods and system slowdowns. Many taxpayers have also previously called for additional flexibility in submission deadlines, especially when public holidays or technical issues disrupt normal filing routines.
Summary of Deadline Change
| Item | Previous Deadline | Revised Deadline | Reason for Extension |
|---|---|---|---|
| VAT return for March transactions | 15 April | 23 April | Bengali New Year holidays and e-VAT system maintenance and technical upgrades |
Officials further noted that digital transformation within VAT administration remains a key priority, with continuous improvements being implemented to enhance efficiency and transparency in tax collection. While transitional challenges are expected during system upgrades, the long-term objective is to provide a more reliable and streamlined service for taxpayers across the country.
Business representatives have expressed cautious optimism, stating that the additional time will help firms—especially smaller operators with limited accounting capacity—prepare and submit accurate returns without facing undue pressure. The extension is also expected to reduce the risk of late submissions and associated penalties.
Overall, the decision reflects an effort to balance administrative efficiency with taxpayer convenience, reinforcing a broader commitment to fostering a more compliant and business-friendly tax environment.