Personal Income Tax (Direct Assessment) Guide
Personal Income Tax (PIT) applies to individuals earning income in Nigeria. While employees pay through PAYE (Pay As You Earn), self-employed individuals, freelancers, and business owners must file through Direct Assessment.
Who Files Direct Assessment?
- Self-Employed: Sole proprietors, traders, artisans
- Professionals: Lawyers, doctors, consultants, accountants in private practice
- Freelancers: Independent contractors, gig workers
- Landlords: Individuals earning rental income
- Investors: Those with investment income not subject to final WHT
Tax Rates (Finance Act 2025)
| Chargeable Income | Rate |
|---|---|
| First ₦800,000 | 7% |
| Next ₦1,200,000 | 11% |
| Next ₦2,200,000 | 15% |
| Next ₦3,200,000 | 19% |
| Next ₦4,100,000 | 21% |
| Next ₦38,500,000 | 23% |
| Above ₦50,000,000 | 24% |
Allowable Deductions
- CRA: ₦400,000 or 1% of gross income + 20% of gross income
- Business Expenses: Wholly and exclusively incurred for the business
- Pension: Voluntary contributions up to 20% of income
- NHF: 2.5% of income
- Life Insurance: Premium paid on life insurance
- Rent Relief: 20% of rent paid, max ₦500,000
For employed individuals, use the PAYE Calculator. For companies, see the CIT Calculator.