Gov’t to Introduce VAT “Reward Scheme” in 2026 to Strengthen Compliance
The government is set to introduce a national Value Added Tax (VAT) “Reward Scheme” next year as part of a broader push to improve tax compliance and enhance revenue mobilisation across the country.
The initiative, announced by the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, follows an engagement with staff of the Large Taxpayer Office at the VAT House in Accra. During the visit, the Minister reaffirmed his commitment to support their operations and eliminate obstacles affecting the efficiency of tax administration.
Under the planned scheme, citizens who request and collect VAT receipts after making purchases will have their receipts entered into national draws, giving participants an opportunity to win a variety of rewards. The move is aimed at encouraging consumers to demand receipts consistently — a practice the Ministry believes will help reduce leakages within the VAT system.
Officials say the measure is expected to significantly boost compliance, increase transparency, and help improve overall revenue performance at a time when the state is seeking reliable domestic resources to support national development.
The VAT “Reward Scheme” is part of a wider set of tax administration reforms scheduled to begin next year. These reforms include the rollout of an upgraded VAT system and the expanded use of fiscal electronic devices to strengthen reporting accuracy and improve monitoring.
According to Dr Ato Forson, the combined measures will help “build a modern, fair and efficient revenue system” that aligns with government’s broader economic agenda. He further noted that the reforms are designed to support the national objective of “Resetting for Growth, Jobs, and Economic Transformation.”
The Ministry of Finance believes the introduction of rewards for tax-compliant citizens will not only incentivise compliance but also deepen public participation in the country’s revenue mobilisation effort.
