BRA advises early filers to refile 2025 Tax Returns following PIT update

The Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) is advising more than 3 000 taxpayers who submitted Personal Income Tax (PIT) returns prior to the release of the updated form for Income Year 2025 that they will be required to refile.

The BRA confirmed that returns submitted before March 27, 2026 were completed using an earlier version that did not reflect the expanded credits and revised income thresholds introduced in the 2026 Budgetary Proposals and Financial Statement, delivered by the Minister of Finance on March 16, 2026. These returns will be removed to ensure that affected taxpayers benefit fully from the updated provisions.

Revenue Commissioner, Jason King emphasised the importance of accuracy in the filing process: “This update ensures that taxpayers benefit fully from the enhanced credits and expanded income thresholds introduced last month. However, it is critical that individuals take a few moments to review their information carefully before filing. Accuracy at this stage prevents delays and ensures taxpayers receive the benefits for which they are eligible.”

The BRA is also drawing attention to an issue affecting some taxpayers, who have filed on the updated return, in relation to incomplete or inaccurate third-party submitted data.

Third-party entities were required to submit statutory information by February 28, 2026, including PAYE schedules, pension income, union dues, unemployment income, and other third-party payments. In some instances, this information has not yet been uploaded or may contain errors, which could impact the accuracy of returns.

The Revenue Commissioner urged taxpayers to take an active role in verifying their information: “Taxpayers should not assume their records are complete. It is imperative that individuals check that all relevant information has been uploaded to their account and that it is accurate before filing. A quick review can make the difference between a smooth filing experience and unnecessary complications.”

The BRA noted that only the relevant employer or third-party entity can correct discrepancies in submitted data.

Taxpayers are therefore encouraged to review their accounts carefully, confirm that all required information is present and accurate, and ensure that they file using the updated return. (BRA)