BIR sets up tax assistance for micro, small businesses

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in the Philippines has initiated a taxpayer assistance program specifically tailored for micro and small businesses in Makati. This program, known as the Micro and Small Taxpayers Assistance and Mentoring Program (MS-TAMP), was launched by Revenue Region (RR) 8A–Makati on September 15. The program aims to provide guidance, direct assistance, and mentoring to these businesses to help them understand and comply with their tax obligations.

Antonino Ilagan, the BIR regional director and executive sponsor of MS-TAMP, emphasized that the program is focused on providing taxpayer assistance rather than conducting audits. He stated that MS-TAMP is designed to identify areas where guidance is needed, reach out early, and help micro and small taxpayers comply with their tax obligations correctly. This is not an audit program, but rather an assistance and mentoring initiative.

To implement MS-TAMP, the BIR has issued regional orders, established its organizational structure, created the official RR 8A–Makati Viber Community Channel, produced an MS-TAMP infomercial, and ceremonially sent assistance notices to taxpayers. BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza praised BIR Makati for their initiative in bringing assistance closer to micro and small taxpayers, highlighting the Bureau's commitment to strengthening services that help taxpayers understand their obligations, address concerns early, and make compliance easier.