Running a small business in Nigeria is tough enough—managing sales, handling customers, and keeping up with expenses. Then comes that dreaded email from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) reminding you to file your VAT (Value Added Tax) or CIT (Company Income Tax).
For many business owners, the first reaction is: “I don’t even know where to start.”
If that sounds like you, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Let’s break it down and show you exactly what to do.
Why Did You Get the FIRS Email?
FIRS regularly sends reminders to registered businesses to comply with tax regulations. Even if:
- You did not charge VAT,
- Your clients didn’t pay VAT, or
- Your business made little or no profit,
You are still required to file your tax returns—even if it’s a Nil return.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
Failing to file attracts penalties and interest charges, which can quickly pile up and eat into your business finances. Many small businesses end up paying more in fines than the actual tax itself.
So it’s always better to file early and stay compliant.
What Are Your Options?
As a small business owner, you have two main filing responsibilities:
- VAT (Value Added Tax) – File monthly, even if you didn’t charge VAT (Nil return).
- CIT (Company Income Tax) – File annually, based on your profit and company activities.
If you didn’t charge VAT or make profit, you can file Nil VAT or Nil CIT to avoid penalties.
But Here’s the Challenge…
Most small business owners don’t know how to:
- Register and log into the FIRS TaxPro Max portal,
- Calculate VAT or CIT correctly,
- File Nil returns without errors,
- Keep proper records for future compliance.
And that’s where we come in.
How We Can Help You
We provide simple, affordable tax filing services for small businesses in Nigeria.
✅ Filing VAT (including Nil returns)
✅ Filing CIT (Company Income Tax)
✅ Explaining your tax obligations in plain English
✅ Saving you from costly fines and penalties
✅ Keeping you stress-free so you can focus on running your business
Ready to Stay Compliant Without Stress?
Don’t ignore that FIRS email—take action today.
📌 Contact us now and let’s help you file your VAT and CIT quickly and correctly.
FAQs
Q1: I didn’t collect VAT from customers. Do I still need to file?
Yes. You must file a Nil VAT return to avoid penalties.
Q2: My business hasn’t made any profit yet. Do I need to file CIT?
Yes. You file a Nil CIT return. Profit or not, FIRS requires annual filing.
Q3: What happens if I don’t file?
You’ll be charged penalties and interest, which can accumulate and become very expensive.
Q4: Can I do this myself?
Yes, but the FIRS portal can be confusing. Most small business owners prefer professionals to handle it so they don’t make costly mistakes.
Q5: How much do you charge for tax filing?
Our pricing is affordable and tailored to small businesses. Contact us today for a quick quote.