As required within the jurisdiction of Trinidad and Tobago, individuals or businesses that makes a gross sales value of TT$500,000 or in excess of TT$500,000 in any 12-month period, MUST register for VAT.

Individuals and businesses whose sales forecast is TT$500,000 or more within any 12-month period, MUST also register.

The Ministry of Finance provides a detailed overview of the VAT registration process. See more here: https://www.finance.gov.tt/services/income-tax/registering-for-vat/

While it is not necessary to attach invoices when submitting your VAT returns, individuals and businesses are advised to keep their books and records in order should the documents be requested.  

Related: Bookkeeping Tips for Small Businesses

GUIDELINES FOR KEEPING BOOKS AND RECORDS

Guided by the Ministry of Finance, Inland Revenue Division, the following are basic guidelines for the keeping of books and records.

It must be kept:

  • In the English Language
  • In the nation’s currency (TT)
  • At the principal place of business

In such form as would enable the BIR to determine the accuracy of the information appearing on the VAT Return.

 

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Cherise Castle-Blugh is the author of The Timely Entrepreneur Series and the Director of Entrepreneur Services at The Timely Entrepreneur®. She has been working to grow the Trinidad and Tobago Entrepreneurial community, creating resources and events to support entrepreneurs.