Complaints mount over “difficult” real estate tax app as taxpayers press for deadline extension

Last night’s talk shows focused on the Finance Ministry’s recently launched property tax app, which El Sora’s Lamees El Hadidi described as “complicated.” Regarding the upcoming deadline for the ministry’s tax break package, El Hadidi said that many users — who are looking to benefit from the 25% tax rebate for those who file on time — are asking for a one-month extension.

Technical difficulties: El Hadidi described the app as “difficult and complicated” and said users “need time” to use it smoothly. She added that officials are already looking into extending the tax return deadline, though it’s still unclear if the grace period for the tax relief package will also be pushed back. (watch, runtime: 2:38)

The Finance Ministry is tracking user issues with the app, and an extension is under review, Deputy Finance Minister and acting chief of the Real Estate Tax Authority Ramy Youssef said in a phone-in interview with Amr Adib on El Hekaya. Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk is aware of the glitches and aims to give users “the full time allowed,” Youssef added. The glitches were caused by heavy user traffic — with some 1.2 mn users logging into the app so far. Total registrations are expected to reach 10 mn (watch, runtime: 18:23).

REMEMBER- The mobile app was launched to allow users to submit tax returns, make advance payments, and request exemptions digitally. This initiative is part of a broader package of tax and customs reforms designed to boost tax revenues by 1–2% of GDP over three years by broadening the tax base rather than raising tax rates.