AN ASSESSMENT OF THE QUALITY OF FINANCIAL RECORDS COLLECTED BY THE REVENUE AUTHORITY IN ENHANCING TAX COLLECTION: A CASE STUDY OF TANZANIA REVENUE AUTHORITY, BAGAMOYO DISTRICT TOWN COUNCIL BRANCH OFFICE

This study assessed the quality of financial records collected by the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) and their contribution to enhancing tax collection, using the TRA Bagamoyo District Town Council Branch Office as a case study. The study aimed to assess the quality of financial records collected from customers, examine the role of quality financial records in enhancing tax collection, identify the challenges faced by TRA in collecting and managing quality financial records, and propose appropriate measures to improve financial records management. A mixed-method research approach and descriptive research design were employed. Data were collected from a sample of 30 respondents comprising taxpayers, TRA staff, and heads of departments through questionnaires and structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents considered the financial records collected by TRA to be accurate, complete, and reliable, making them suitable for effective tax administration. Quality financial records were found to enhance tax collection by promoting accountability, supporting accurate tax assessment, facilitating tax audits, improving compliance monitoring, and strengthening transparency in tax administration. However, the study identified several challenges affecting effective financial records management, and limited financial resources. The study concludes that quality financial records are fundamental to effective tax administration and enhanced revenue collection at the Tanzania Revenue Authority. It recommends the implementation of Electronic Records Management Systems (ERMS), improvement of records storage infrastructure, continuous staff training and taxpayer awareness programs, stronger enforcement of records management policies, and increased investment in modern records management technologies. Implementing these recommendations will strengthen financial records management practices, improve taxpayer compliance, and enhance tax collection performance at TRA Bagamoyo District Town Council Branch Office.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved