We have no income tax numbers, can we get TIN registration?

Dear Editor,

I read in the GRA corner of the paper about this new TIN registration all individuals need to have. I attempted to apply for one and was told that I have to have a number from my income tax returns.

I have only filed tax returns once, through the ministry of education, several years ago.

I live and work in the North Rupununi. At this end we are unaware of many things that are going on, and the importance of making income tax returns was never stressed. I brought several forms for teachers to apply. However, none of these teachers(practically all teachers in Region 9) have ever sent an income tax return to the GRA.

Am I to understand that for all of us it would be impossible to have a TIN registration? If so, what should be our next course of action? Please advise, since the deadline is fast approaching.

Yours faithfully, A. Thornton

Editor’s note

We are sending a copy of this letter to the Guyana Revenue Authority for any comments they may wish to make.