Recently the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue implemented an automated system that allows taxpayers to complete Excise Tax forms on-line. We have high expectations that, once fully functional, the system will improve the efficiency of the Excise Tax clearance procedure, substantially reduce the paperwork burden on the taxpayer and improve the Bureau’s ability to capture the value of imported goods into the territory. The system was developed by Raw Data, Inc., an experienced data solutions provider based in Atlanta, Georgia. Raw Data, Inc. received input and guidance from Bureau staff, who in turn held several training sessions with excise tax brokers in the private sector from November 2013. The Excise Tax Data Program was launched on March 3, 2014, and, admittedly, we have encountered some challenges resulting in complaints from taxpayers who utilize the Excise Tax offices.
First of all, I would like to apologize to taxpayers for any problems they may have encountered in their first use of the new electronic system or the long lines that resulted at the Excise Tax offices. This is not the outcome that we wanted. As might be expected with the implementation of a new program, the first week of use was characterized by challenges for both taxpayers and the Bureau’s staff. We deployed additional personnel to the Excise Tax offices to assist first-time users of the program who experienced problems and to assist others who were unfamiliar with the new system. The Bureau is addressing inconsistencies in the system and addressing them as expeditiously as possible, and has reached out to the business sector to identify any additional concerns. Staff from Raw Data were on hand to correct and modify programming issues. There is a learning curve associated with any initiative, and we ask taxpayers to be patient as the new system is introduced, as we all get familiar with the program, and work t0 correct all problems and achieve the ultimate goal of reducing the duplicative work of the taxpayer and improve efficiency.
Prior to the implementation of the Excise Tax Data Program, personnel from both the Bureau and Raw Data met with ten (10) excise tax brokers to educate them on the workings of the new electronic system. I’m pleased to report that the majority of the Territory’s brokers are now efficiently submitting their tax returns via the excise tax portal found at www.vibir.gov. Their problem-free use of the system is a triumph for all those who have worked so hard on developing the new system. For those that are still having problems, we will provide additional taxpayer and broker education and assistance to ensure the success of the program for all users throughout the Virgin Islands. Any broker needing assistance should contact my Excise Tax office immediately.
This initiative is part of the Administration’s broader program to improve efficiency throughout the Government of the Virgin Islands, including the Bureau of Internal Revenue, as well as to increase tax revenues through more accurate and automated reporting systems. I am aware that many taxpayers are ready for online tax payments. That method of payment is now being explored, and I hope that it can become a reality in the very near future. I urge taxpayers or brokers with questions or concerns about the new program to contact Glen Hodge, the Bureau’s Supervisor of Excise Tax, at 340-775-0192.
On behalf of the staff of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, I wish to express our gratitude for your understanding and patience as the Bureau continues to improve its performance.
Editor’s note: Claudette Watson-Anderson, CPA, is the director of the V.I. Bureau of Internal Revenue.
