In today’s rapidly changing work landscape, the rise of the gig economy has transformed the way people earn a living. Like many countries, Nigeria has witnessed significant growth in the number of freelancers who provide services on a project basis without long-term employment commitments.
As the gig economy continues to thrive, an important question arises: should Nigerian freelancers pay taxes? In this blog, we will explore this intriguing topic, examining the benefits of the gig economy while considering taxation’s crucial role in supporting government services.
By delving into the intricacies of Nigeria’s tax system, analyzing the arguments for freelancers paying taxes, and discussing potential solutions, we aim to shed light on this compelling issue.
Let’s get started.
Understanding the Nigerian Tax System
When it comes to taxation in Nigeria, freelancers need to familiarize themselves with the country’s tax structure. The Nigerian tax system operates under a federal arrangement, meaning taxes are levied at both the federal and state levels. At the federal level, the primary tax legislation is the Companies Income Tax Act (CITA) and the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA). On the other hand, each state in Nigeria also has its own tax laws and regulations, which may vary slightly.
Types of Taxes Applicable to Freelancers
As a freelancer, you have the freedom to choose your clients and the projects you undertake. Depending on your approach, this flexibility can range from taking on occasional gigs informally to operating as a small business owner.
With that, it’s important to understand the various tax brackets that may apply to you as a freelancer operating in Nigeria. They are as follows:
- Personal Income Tax: When you earn income as an individual freelancer, you are responsible for paying personal income tax in Nigeria. This tax is applicable annually as long as you reside in the country. Personal income tax is particularly relevant if you work as a contractor for a specific client or engage in sporadic project-based work.
- Company Income Tax: If you have registered a company to conduct your freelancing business, you are required to pay company income tax. This tax applies to the profits you generate through your business activities.
- Value Added Tax: Value Added Tax (VAT) is a mandatory tax imposed on the supply of goods and services. As a freelancer, you may need to pay VAT when you utilize services such as app development or provide services like writing.
Understanding these tax categories is essential as you navigate your tax obligations and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
Tax Authorities and Regulations in Nigeria
In Nigeria, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is the central tax authority responsible for administering and enforcing tax laws at the federal level. The FIRS oversees the collection of various taxes, including the Personal Income Tax and the Value Added Tax. At the state level, each state has its own tax authority, such as the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) in Lagos. These state tax authorities enforce and collect taxes within their respective jurisdictions.
To ensure compliance with tax regulations, freelancers should be aware of their tax obligations and keep accurate records of their income and expenses. It is important to stay updated on any changes in tax laws and seek professional advice when needed to navigate the intricacies of the Nigerian tax system.
Now that we have an overview of the Nigerian tax system, let’s explore the arguments for Nigerian freelancers paying taxes and the benefits it can bring.
Arguments for Nigerian Freelancers Paying Taxes
Paying taxes as a freelancer goes beyond fulfilling a legal obligation. It also brings about several compelling arguments in favor of tax compliance. Here are some key reasons why Nigerian freelancers should consider paying taxes:
Contribution to National Development
By paying taxes, freelancers actively contribute to the development of their country. Taxes play a crucial role in funding public infrastructure projects, such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. These investments benefit both freelancers and the wider society by creating an enabling environment for economic growth and improved living standards.
Funding Social Welfare Programs
Tax revenues are instrumental in financing social welfare programs, such as healthcare systems, education initiatives, and poverty alleviation efforts. By paying their fair share of taxes, freelancers contribute to the overall well-being of the Nigerian population, ensuring that essential services and support systems are available to those in need.
Legality and Compliance with Tax Laws
Adhering to tax laws demonstrates professionalism and ethical business conduct. Paying taxes as a freelancer not only upholds the law but also establishes a strong reputation for being a responsible and law-abiding citizen. This can lead to increased trust and credibility among clients, partners, and potential collaborators.
Enhancing Credibility and Professionalism
Tax compliance can significantly enhance the credibility and professionalism of freelancers. Clients and partners often seek freelancers who operate within the legal framework and exhibit financial transparency. Paying taxes showcases financial responsibility and can open doors to better opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations.
Challenges Faced by Nigerian Freelancers
While the importance of paying taxes as a Nigerian freelancer is evident, there are particular challenges that freelancers often encounter:
Inconsistent Income and Financial Instability
Freelancers may experience irregular income streams, making it challenging to meet tax obligations consistently. Fluctuations in project availability and payment schedules can create financial uncertainty, making it difficult to plan and allocate funds for tax payments.
Lack of Awareness and Understanding of Tax Obligations
Many freelancers in Nigeria may lack sufficient knowledge about their tax obligations. The complex nature of the tax system, coupled with limited access to tax education, can lead to confusion and non-compliance. Addressing this knowledge gap is crucial for freelancers to understand and fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
The Burden of Multiple Taxes and Complexity in the Tax System
Nigerian freelancers often face the burden of multiple taxes, including personal income tax, value-added tax, and company income tax if they have registered a company. Navigating these various tax categories and understanding their specific requirements can be overwhelming, especially for freelancers who handle their own finances without professional assistance.
Despite these challenges, freelancers need to address them proactively and seek guidance to overcome any obstacles they may encounter. The benefits of tax compliance and its positive impact on both personal and national development make it a worthwhile endeavor for Nigerian gig economy workers.
Now that we have explored the arguments for Nigerian freelancers paying taxes and the challenges they may face, let’s delve into the potential benefits that tax compliance can bring to freelancers in Nigeria.
Potential Benefits for Freelancers in Paying Taxes
Paying taxes as a Nigerian freelancer may come with challenges. But, it also brings forth a range of potential advantages that can positively impact freelancers personally and professionally. Let’s explore some of these benefits:
Access to Government Services and Benefits
Fulfilling tax obligations makes freelancers eligible for various government services and benefits. This includes access to healthcare insurance, pension schemes, and social security programs. These support systems provide freelancers a safety net, ensuring their well-being and offering peace of mind during financial uncertainty.
Improved Financial Management and Planning
Paying taxes requires freelancers to maintain accurate financial records, track income and expenses, and develop good financial habits. This process promotes better financial management, enabling freelancers to budget effectively, plan for future expenses, and make informed decisions about their business and personal finances.
Establish a Track Record for Future Opportunities
Consistent tax compliance builds a positive track record for freelancers, enhancing their reputation and credibility. This track record can be advantageous when applying for loans or seeking financial support for business expansion. Financial institutions and potential clients often consider tax compliance as an indicator of stability and reliability, increasing the likelihood of securing favorable business opportunities.
Contribute to Economic Growth
By paying taxes, freelancers contribute to the overall economic growth of Nigeria. Tax revenues are essential for government spending on infrastructure development, public services, and social welfare programs. As freelancers fulfill their tax obligations, they actively participate in fostering a favorable economic environment that benefits the entire nation.
How Much Tax Should I Pay on a Freelancing Income?
If you’re ready to fulfill your tax obligations as a resident of Nigeria, refer to the information below for a seamless process:
Value Added Tax (VAT)
In Nigeria, VAT is fixed at a rate of 7.5%. To calculate your payable VAT, let’s say you charge a client N300,000 for website design. Your VAT payment would be N22,500.
To simplify the payment process, you can adopt a strategy commonly used by restaurants and other Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) businesses to maximize profit. Instead of charging your client N300,000 and paying the VAT separately, you can include the VAT in your rates. For example, you can charge your client N325,500, which includes the VAT. Make sure to clearly state in the invoice that the client is paying VAT to avoid confusion or misinterpretation.
Personal Income Tax
Before calculating your personal income tax, you need to identify your taxable income. Taxable income is the amount you earn after deducting allowable expenses and deductions. This determines the tax you are liable to pay for the year.
Allowable expenses include existing loans, legal fees, and operational costs like rent. However, it doesn’t include capital, penalties, traffic offenses, private expenses, and similar items. Subtracting these expenses from your total income will give you your taxable income. For instance, if you earned N1,500,000 in the previous year and after deducting allowable expenses, your taxable income is N750,000, you will pay annual personal income tax based on that amount.
Unfortunately, personal income tax rates are not fixed and vary based on your income bracket.
The table below provides an example of personal income tax rates corresponding to annual income:
| Annual Income in Naira | Personal Income Tax |
| Up to N300,000 | 7% |
| N300,001 – N600,000 | 11% |
| N600,001 – N1,000,000 | 15% |
| N1,000,001 and above | 19% |
Company Income Tax (CIT)
Fortunately, if your gross turnover is less than N25,000,000 annually, your company income tax rate is 0%. However, if your turnover exceeds this threshold, you are required to pay 20% on your capital gains as CIT.
Ensuring compliance with these tax obligations will help you maintain good standing and contribute to the development of Nigeria’s economy.
Bottomline
Paying taxes as a Nigerian freelancer is not just about fulfilling civic duties; it’s about actively contributing to national development. By funding public infrastructure projects and social welfare programs, freelancers play a vital role in shaping a better future for themselves and their fellow citizens. Moreover, tax compliance demonstrates professionalism, credibility, and financial responsibility, which can lead to increased trust and open doors to better opportunities.
Undoubtedly, challenges exist for freelancers, including financial instability, lack of tax awareness, and the complexity of the tax system. However, freelancers can overcome any obstacle by proactively addressing these challenges, seeking guidance, and staying informed to reap the benefits of tax compliance.
Take a step towards tax compliance today. Consult with tax professionals, educate yourself about your tax obligations, and embrace the benefits that come with fulfilling your responsibilities as a Nigerian freelancer. Together, let’s build a thriving economy and secure a prosperous future for all.
