IRS Chase Stars For Tax Bonuses

The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) of Ghana wants players of the Black Stars to pay tax on their bonuses accrued from the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.

Speaking to local radio station Asempa FM, the retired IRS boss, Major Ablorh-Quarcoo said they have directed the GFA (Ghana Football Association) to deduct the tax from the €14,321 ($20,000) reward the government promised each player.

He said the taxing policy for employees in Ghana does not discriminate on every income they earn and it would be unfair for the players to evade taxes on their winning bonuses and allowances they gained in competitions.

“Every income from employment, whether bonuses or allowances to employees, are subject to tax,” he stressed.

Major Ablorh-Quarcoo said it is only Parliament that can decide to exempt the team from paying tax.

The Black Stars, who came second at the 27th edition of the Nations Cup have also earned a €184,582 ($250,000) bonus from their telecommunications sponsor Globacom Ghana.

However, a Ghana international who pleaded anonymity told Goal.com that the IRS decision comes as a surprise.

“We have participated in several international competitions and received hefty bonuses but how come this is coming up only this year. This is not fair and must be given a second thought.

“We do not have anything to fall on when we retire so these are what we can count on now to make future investments. It’s worrying and I will want to call on our authorities and the senior players to fight it.”