Owing to the recent downtime experienced on the e-tax portal, the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) on Wednesday extended the deadline for filing of employers’ annual tax returns by one week tp February 7, 2024.

Ayodele Subair, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, conveyed this in a public notice released by the agency.

While urging taxpayers to take advantage of this extension to perform their civic obligation, LIRS in a statement recalled that statutorily, the filing of annual tax returns by companies expires on January 31 of each fiscal year and attracts stiff penalties for defaulters.

The extension, Subair continued,  is aimed at providing taxpayers with additional time to ensure accurate and timely submission of their annual tax returns.

He also urged employers of labour to take full advantage of the extension to perform their civic obligation to avoid penalties and other statutory sanctions outlined in section 81(3) of the Personal Income Tax (Amendment) Act 2011.

According to him, “we understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and this extension is intended to accommodate such instances.

“We implore all employers of labour within Lagos State, who are experiencing difficulties in the filing of their annual tax returns to call our customer service centre on 0700 CALL LIRS (0700 2255 5477) or visit the help desks at our various tax stations.”

It is important, he continued, “to adhere to the revised deadline to maintain compliance and avoid any potential penalties.

“For further details or inquiries, we encourage taxpayers to visit the agency’s website at www.lirs.gov.ng, follow LIRS on social media platforms, or contact us via email at etaxinfo@lirs.net, the LIRS boss stated.