From Tax Administration Jamaica’s Annual Special Taxpayer Assistance Programme (STAP) Benefits Small Business Operators
- CATA Admin
- Mar 1
- 3 min read
It is important for all taxpayers who earn income to contribute towards national development through declaring and filing their income tax returns. This process may be challenging for some persons. As a result, Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) provides relevant guidance through its annual Special Taxpayer Assistance Programme (STAP). During the 2025 tax filing season, this initiative provided hands-on support for hundreds of taxpayers in meeting their filing obligations.
What is the Special Taxpayer Assistance Programme (STAP)?
The STAP is an island wide initiative designed to assist individuals and businesses in preparing and submitting their annual tax returns accurately and on time. The programme is especially beneficial for self-employed individuals, small business owners, pensioners, and other taxpayers earning less than J$10 million annually, who may require additional guidance in navigating the tax system.
TAJ deploys its trained Taxpayer Educations Officers across the island to designated locations, primarily at Tax Offices for scheduled sessions; these professionals provide free guidance on how to complete tax forms and file online through TAJ’s Revenue Administration Information System (RAIS) e-Services portal.
Key Features and Benefits of STAP
Tax officers provide one-on-one support, ensuring that taxpayers understand how to complete their tax returns correctly.
Taxpayers are taught how to use TAJ’s online platform to file returns, as required.
The programme helps taxpayers avoid penalties and interest by ensuring timely and accurate submissions.
Assistance is offered at various community hubs and at Tax Offices, making it accessible to a wide range of taxpayers.
Taxpayers receive up-to-date information on tax changes, incentives, and allowable deductions.
Who Can Benefit?
Self-employed individuals – including sole traders, freelancers, and professionals.
Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) – business owners looking for clarity on tax compliance.
Pensioners and other individuals – especially those with additional sources of taxable income.
Any taxpayer needing assistance – anyone who requires guidance on completing their returns correctly.
How to Access the Programme
Taxpayers were able to visit TAJ’s website at www.jamaicatax.gov.jm to find STAP locations and schedules. Additionally, they were able to contact TAJ’s customer service for further assistance.
Partnership
TAJ also actively engaged various organisations by conducting customised STAP sessions with their relevant members/clients. These tailored sessions were designed to meet the unique needs of various taxpayer groups, including small business owners, professionals, and corporate entities, ensuring they receive targeted guidance with filing their returns. This year TAJ had an increased number of these sessions with key organisations such as:
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Alliance
Realtors Association of Jamaica (RAJ)
Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ)
Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA)
Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC)
Sagicor Bank, Small Business Unit
National Commercial Bank, SME Unit
By collaborating with these organisations, TAJ enhanced taxpayer awareness and fostered voluntary compliance, ultimately contributing to improved revenue collection.
TAJ Webinars
Another critical element of STAP was the hosting of three (3) Income Tax webinars, coordinated through its Virtual Events Support Team (VEST), targeting self-employed persons, Corporate Bodies and Individuals. These were also livestreamed to TAJ’s YouTube page.
The Importance of Filing on Time
Filing annual returns on time is crucial to maintaining good standing with the tax authority. Late submissions can result in penalties, interest charges, and possible legal action.
The STAP is a valuable resource to ensure compliance while making the process easier for all taxpayers.
By leveraging the Special Taxpayer Assistance Programme, taxpayers were able to fulfil their tax obligations with confidence and ease. TAJ remains committed to simplifying the tax process and promoting voluntary compliance through ongoing education and support initiatives.
