New tax payment method unlaunched

Seabata Mahao

Taxpayers can now conveniently make electronic tax payments using their M-Pesa accounts on their mobile phones if they are registered as e-tax platform users.

This comes after the Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) and VCL Financial Services (VCLFS) this week launched a USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) protocol for sending text messages as an electronic payment system.

Speaking at the launch of the USSD system on Tuesday last week, RSL’s deputy Commissioner of Revenue Compliance, Mokhethi Mabea said more of their services are going online.

Through the USSD system, Mabea said taxpayers will be able to pay for both customs and inland taxes.

“Our goal is to ensure convenience and social engagement. We have developed a platform that holds significant value and we are successfully providing it to our clients,” Mabea said.

“Our clients can make payments with clear and accurate references. Our clients will be able to pay for both customs and inland taxes. Our clients will be able to see the receipt and print it after carrying out the transactions.”

On her part, product manager and owner, from VCL Financial Services Mpho Mosotho, said individuals have the convenience of paying their taxes from their own homes using their mobile phones.

“Users should dial *200# and select from the provided options to choose the type of tax they wish to pay. Users will need to provide their Tax Identification Number (TIN) when making payments,” Mosotho said.

“Customs tax must be paid in full, unlike other taxes that can be paid in instalments. We have simplified the tax payment process for Mosotho, whether employed or running a business,” she said.