There are clear advantages and some drawbacks to the new tax payment system, where every taxpayer will settle obligations through a Single Tax Account (UNT) using the Single Tax Payment (UTP). This is the viewpoint shared with Public News Service by Leonid Khazanov, who holds a doctorate in economics and engages in public policy discussion.
The economist notes a primary benefit: reduced need for external accounting. Previously, taxpayers faced a patchwork process, paying taxes in separate orders that demanded continuous tracking and verification. The shift to a single consolidated account means accountants do less repetitive work, and individuals no longer have to earmark funds for each tax type separately. With this setup, money is directed into one centralized account, from which VAT, income tax, and personal income tax obligations can be managed more efficiently. The consolidation should simplify cash flow, letting people see the total tax picture at a glance and facilitating smoother payments without juggling multiple accounts or payment channels.
Yet the plan comes with downsides. The former flexibility for an accountant to prioritize critical debts may diminish. If the account does not hold enough funds for one tax, all other obligations can come under strain because the system treats debts more uniformly. There is an anticipated increase in reporting requirements, as taxpayers will receive notifications about amounts due before each payment, ensuring clear traceability and accountability for every transaction. This could add administrative tasks for both individuals and their financial advisors, though it also fosters timely, organized compliance. The outcome hinges on the balance between automation benefits and the effort needed to monitor the consolidated ledger.
In guidance from Olga Daineko, a specialist with the Financial Literacy Center of the Russian Ministry of Finance, the unt system requires completion before milestones such as December 1 for land, property, and transportation taxes. She emphasizes that payments can be initiated through banking apps or the tax payment service within a personal account on the official tax service website, as well as through the My Documents center or by postal submission. This framing helps taxpayers understand the practical pathways for compliance and the timeline for submitting obligations within the new framework. [Citation: Olga Daineko, Financial Literacy Center]
Earlier discussions in legislative circles touched on how retirees might receive partial refunds of income tax, a topic that underscores the broader goals of simplifying tax administration while preserving targeted benefits. As the system evolves, residents and policymakers alike will watch how the UNT and UTP configurations impact budgeting, reporting, and the integrity of tax flows across diverse financial situations. The conversation continues to blend economic theory with real-world policy, inviting ongoing assessment from stakeholders who balance efficiency with fairness and transparent governance.