LIRS extends deadline for employers to file annual tax returns

The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has extended the deadline for the submission of employers’ annual tax returns by one week, moving the filing date from February 1 to February 7.

The Executive Chairman of LIRS, Dr Ayodele Subair, announced the extension in a statement issued on Friday, noting that the statutory deadline for filing employers’ annual returns remains January 31 each year.

“The extension is to give employers additional time to complete and submit accurate annual tax returns in line with statutory requirements,” Subair said.

He emphasised the importance of compliance, stressing that timely filing should form part of standard business practice. “Employers must prioritise the prompt filing of their annual returns. Tax compliance should not be treated as an afterthought but embedded as a routine business obligation,” he stated.

Subair reiterated that the electronic filing system remains the only approved channel for submitting annual returns. “All employers are required to file their annual returns exclusively through the LIRS eTax platform, as manual filing has been completely phased out,” he said.

Describing the eTax portal, the LIRS chairman noted that it was designed to enhance efficiency and ease of use. “The platform is secure, user-friendly and accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to enable seamless compliance by employers,” he added.

He also urged employers to pay close attention to the accuracy of their submissions, particularly employee records. “Employers are advised to ensure that the Tax Identification Number of every employee is correctly captured in their returns to avoid discrepancies,” Subair said.

Subair further assured taxpayers of the service’s readiness to provide support where necessary. “Employers who require further clarification or assistance are encouraged to visit any LIRS office or reach us through our official website and other authorised communication channels,” he stated.