As a taxpayer in Indonesia, you have the right to take advantage of various tax allowances and deductions provided by the government. One of these allowances is the Bantuan Pangan Non Tunai (BPKM) or Non-Cash Food Assistance, which can help reduce your tax burden and increase your disposable income. In this article, we will discuss what BPKM is, how it works, and how you can claim it.
What is BPKM?
BPKM is a program initiated by the government to provide non-cash food assistance to low-income households. The program aims to help these households meet their daily nutritional needs without having to spend their entire income on food. Under this program, eligible households receive electronic vouchers that can be used to purchase food items at accredited merchants.
Including this program in the tax system, the government provides tax incentives to companies that participate in the BPKM program. Companies that participate in BPKM can claim tax deductions for the amount they spend on BPKM vouchers. By doing so, the government encourages companies to support social programs and reduce poverty levels in Indonesia.
How Does BPKM Work?
Under the BPKM program, eligible households receive electronic vouchers that they can use to purchase food items at accredited merchants. The amount of the voucher is based on the household’s income level and the number of family members. The voucher can be used to purchase food items such as rice, eggs, milk, vegetables, and other nutritious foods.
The government has set up a network of accredited merchants who accept BPKM vouchers. These merchants have undergone a verification process to ensure that they sell high-quality and nutritious foods. The government also conducts regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the program runs smoothly and that the beneficiaries receive the assistance they need.
Who is Eligible for BPKM?
As mentioned earlier, the BPKM program is designed for low-income households. To be eligible for the program, a household must meet certain criteria, including:
- Having a monthly income of less than Rp. 2.5 million
- Having a family card (Kartu Keluarga/KK)
- Having a valid identification card (KTP)
If your household meets these criteria, you can apply for the BPKM program through the Social Affairs Office in your area.
How to Claim BPKM as a Tax Allowance
If you are a company that participates in the BPKM program, you can claim tax deductions for the amount you spend on BPKM vouchers. To do so, you need to follow these steps:
- Register with the Directorate General of Taxes (DGT) and obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP)
- Keep records of the BPKM vouchers you purchase and distribute
- Include the amount you spend on BPKM vouchers as a deductible expense in your annual tax return
By claiming tax deductions for your BPKM expenses, you can reduce your tax burden and contribute to a social cause at the same time. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Conclusion
The Bantuan Pangan Non Tunai (BPKM) program is a valuable social program aimed at reducing poverty levels in Indonesia. By participating in the program, eligible households can receive non-cash food assistance that helps them meet their daily nutritional needs. Companies that participate in the program can claim tax deductions for the amount they spend on BPKM vouchers, which helps them reduce their tax burden and contribute to a social cause. By understanding how BPKM works and how to claim it as a tax allowance, you can take advantage of this program and make the most of your tax benefits as a taxpayer in Indonesia.
