The Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) has awarded more than RWF 1.3 billion to reward compliant taxpayers across Rwanda.The authority granted a VAT-based reward totaling RWF 1,327,986,092 to 157,029 final consumers. This amount represents 10% of the Value Added Tax (VAT) paid on Electronic Billing Machine (EBM) invoices requested during October, November, and December 2025.
This initiative aims to encourage citizens to request official invoices and strengthen tax compliance nationwide.
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Beneficiaries and Record-Breaking Disbursement
Among the beneficiaries are 157,020 consumers who requested invoices in the last quarter of 2025. In addition, nine consumers received RWF 7,091,931 for invoices requested during the third quarter of the same year, covering July, August, and September.
This marks the highest single disbursement since the VAT reward program was launched. So far, the total amount distributed has exceeded RWF 3.7 billion, benefiting 370,147 final consumers.
The growing participation reflects increased public awareness of the importance of requesting EBM invoices and complying with tax regulations.
RRA Highlights Impact on National Development
The Deputy Commissioner in charge of Taxpayer Services and Communications at RRA, Uwitonze Jean Paulin, emphasized the broader value of the program.
“Since the launch of this program, participants have continued to gain tangible benefits. Beyond the financial reward, the initiative plays a significant role in national development and in promoting tax compliance.”
He added that the 157,029 rewarded consumers contributed to the collection of more than RWF 13 billion in tax revenue. According to him, this revenue plays a key role in supporting Rwanda’s development efforts.
Eligibility and Registration for VAT Rewards
Since the introduction of the VAT reward scheme, more than 700,000 final consumers have registered. Under a Ministerial Order governing the program, a final consumer who buys goods for personal use is entitled to a reward equivalent to 10% of the VAT indicated on the issued invoice.
To qualify, individuals must register by providing:
- Full name
- Rwandan telephone number
- Mobile Money or bank account
- National ID (for citizens) or valid identification (for foreign residents)
Registration is done by dialing *800# on a mobile phone and following the instructions or by using the MyRRA platform. Consumers can also use these channels to track their accumulated rewards.
For payment to be made, the VAT shown on the invoice must have been declared and paid by the trader.
Reporting Non-Compliant Traders and Extra Benefits
When requesting an EBM invoice, consumers must remind traders to include the phone number used during registration. This step ensures that rewards are properly credited.
If a trader refuses to issue an EBM invoice, customers are advised to report the case to RRA. The report should include:
- Trader’s name and Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Business location
- Date of purchase
- Proof of payment (Mobile Money or bank)
- Quantity and value of goods purchased
In such cases, the consumer receives an additional reward equal to 50% of the penalties imposed on the non-compliant trader. This measure encourages public participation in enforcing tax laws and promotes transparency in business transactions.
