Dhaka: The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has launched an Online VAT Refund Module to facilitate the online submission, processing, and direct transfer of VAT refund amounts to taxpayers' bank accounts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the introduction of the new module establishes a digital linkage between the existing Integrated VAT Administration System (iVAS) and the Ministry of Finance's iBAS++ system. This connection will enable the transfer of approved VAT refunds directly to the designated bank accounts of taxpayers through the Bangladesh Electronic Fund Transfer Network (BEFTN).
Using the Online VAT Refund Module, taxpayers can submit VAT refund claims online through their VAT returns. Upon receiving the applications online, the concerned VAT Commissionerate will examine and verify the applications as per the VAT Act and related rules. Once approved, the refund amount will be transferred automatically to the taxpayer's bank account through iBAS++ using BEFTN.
Under this new system, taxpayers will no longer need to visit VAT offices to submit refund applications or collect refund cheques, which saves both time and money while ensuring greater transparency.
To process refund applications through the newly introduced Online VAT Refund Module, taxpayers must submit new refund applications online using Form Mushak-9.1 through the iVAS system. This applies even for refund claims previously submitted online or manually in hardcopy form that remain unresolved, as stated in an NBR press release.
To ensure proper use of the Online VAT Refund Module and enhance service efficiency, NBR has arranged training for officers and staff of all VAT Commissionerates. Taxpayers can contact their respective VAT Commissionerates for necessary information and assistance regarding online VAT refunds.
With the introduction of the Online VAT Refund Module for direct transfer of VAT refund amounts to taxpayers' bank accounts, NBR's ongoing digitalization process has advanced another significant step. NBR will continue its efforts to bring all its activities gradually under full automation to ensure transparency and accountability.