Taxpayers in Saint Lucia now have more time to settle their outstanding tax debts without facing penalties or interest charges, as the government has officially extended its tax amnesty program to May 1, 2026.
The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) is encouraging all taxpayers who owe back taxes to take full advantage of this extension and to act early to avoid a last-minute rush. The extended amnesty allows taxpayers to pay only the principal amount owed, with all penalties and interest for tax periods up to December 31, 2023, fully waived.
Acting Comptroller of the Inland Revenue Department, Felicia Ellie, explained the significance of the extension. “In the initial phase of the amnesty, the waiver applied only up to income year 2021. But with this extension, it now covers up to December 31, 2023. This gives taxpayers additional time and opportunity to clear their arrears without the extra financial burden of penalties and interest.”
However, Ms. Ellie emphasized that the amnesty does not absolve taxpayers of their responsibility to pay the actual taxes owed. “The relief applies strictly to penalties and interest — the raw tax amount must still be paid,” she clarified. “This is a critical point for taxpayers to understand.”
The program covers all categories of taxes, including income tax, Value Added Tax (VAT), and other applicable taxes. It offers significant financial relief, but the IRD has issued a cautionary note for those who fail to participate. Taxpayers who do not take advantage of the amnesty risk facing strict enforcement measures once the program ends, including salary garnishments, third-party deductions, and bank account seizures.
“At the end of the amnesty period, if taxes remain unpaid, the full amount including penalties and interest will be restored to the taxpayer’s account,” Ms. Ellie warned. “The opportunity for relief will no longer exist. We urge taxpayers to act now and not wait until the deadline approaches.”
Beyond the financial benefits, clearing outstanding taxes and related penalties also makes doing business with the IRD considerably easier. Ms. Ellie encouraged taxpayers with outstanding amounts for 2024 to address those early as well. “While the amnesty covers tax periods up to 2023, I also encourage taxpayers to use this opportunity to settle their 2024 balances so they can be fully cleared and up to date.”
The Inland Revenue Department has committed to supporting taxpayers through the process and is urging individuals and businesses to contact them to request information or arrange payment plans as soon as possible to benefit from the amnesty.
For more information or assistance, taxpayers can reach out directly to the Inland Revenue Department.
