ASCERTAINMENT OF TOTAL INCOME OF AN INDIVIDUAL: INVESTIGATION AND ENFORCEMENT CONSIDERATIONS

Abstract

The ascertainment of total income is central toboth personal and company income taxation, as it determines the tax liability of an individual nd corporate taxpayer. In Nigeria, where informal economic activities and weak compliance mechanisms persist, tax authorities face persistent challenges in verifying income sources and ensuring accurate declarations. This paper examines specifically the process of ascertaining an individual’s total income within the Nigerian legal framework, emphasizing investigative and enforcement considerations. It explores statutory provisions, administrative procedures, and practical challenges in income verification, while proposing measures to enhance the integrity, transparency, and efficiency of the tax system.