AZE.US
Azerbaijan plans to accelerate the process of refunding value-added tax (VAT) to consumers through further automation of the “ƏDV-ni geri al” (“Get VAT back”) system used after retail purchases.
Under the planned changes, information from next-generation cash registers will be transmitted automatically to the electronic platform that processes VAT refunds. This is expected to simplify the procedure and reduce the waiting time for citizens receiving their money back.
Faster refunds expected
The reform aims to eliminate one of the most common complaints from users of the system – the time it can take for VAT refunds to be processed.
With the new model, details from fiscal receipts will automatically appear in the consumer’s electronic account, allowing the refund process to take place without additional manual steps.
Many shoppers say faster transfers would make the system more convenient, especially for frequent purchases.
Technical issues remain for some users
Some citizens say they occasionally encounter technical difficulties when using the service. Among the most common problems are QR codes that fail to scan or fiscal data that cannot be read by the application.
In such cases, consumers are advised to enter the receipt data manually or request a duplicate receipt from the point of sale.
Digitalization and cashless payments
According to the State Tax Service, the project is designed to simplify the VAT refund mechanism and improve access for citizens. The automation process is expected to increase transparency and make the system easier to use.
Officials also believe that faster refunds could encourage more cashless payments, as the program applies to purchases made through registered retail transactions.
Experts note that increasing public awareness about the system will be important to ensure that more consumers take advantage of the VAT refund program.