Section 49 - Audit by tax authorities

Audit powers allow tax authorities to examine records, require information and trigger recovery action post-audit.

Tax authorities may audit any taxable person's business transactions at prescribed periods and places after issuing at least fifteen working days' notice. Audits must be transparent and ordinarily completed within three months of commencement, with a written extension of up to six months possible. 'Commencement of audit' is the later of records being made available or the actual start of audit at the business. During audit, officers may verify books, require information and assistance. On conclusion, the proper officer must inform the taxable person of findings, rights, obligations and reasons; detection of tax discrepancies permits initiation of action under the specified recovery provision.