Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Accounting is crucial for business success!
Every business is unique, with its own set of challenges and aspirations. This holds true whether you're running a small enterprise, launching a startup, or managing a large corporation. At HA Accounting, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work in accounting.
Our team of seasoned professionals goes beyond offering cookie-cutter solutions. We tailor our strategies to align with your specific business scale, model, and long-term objectives. Our commitment is to make accounting a clear, efficient, and seamless experience for you.
Why should you start a business in Armenia?
- Swift company registration: In Armenia, commercial organizations are registered immediately after document submission. There are no stipulations regarding minimum capital, employee count, or a legal address.
- 100% foreign ownership: Foreign individuals and entities can wholly own Armenian companies without needing local partners, directors, or staff. Additionally, a company with a foreign founder can own land in Armenia.
- Flexible taxation options: Companies can choose their taxation system. For annual turnovers up to AMD 115 million, there's an option for a 5% turnover tax under the alternative taxation system. For higher turnovers, the general taxation system applies, including an 18% profit tax, 20% VAT, and 20% income tax. Micro-enterprises with turnovers up to AMD 24 million are exempt from tax.
- International trade opportunities: Armenian products enjoy duty-free export to EAEU member states, most CIS countries, and markets in Iran, Singapore, Vietnam, Serbia, and China. Preferential trade regimes exist with Canada, the USA, Switzerland, Norway, and Japan.
- Residency opportunity: Entrepreneurial activity in Armenia can lead to eligibility for a residence permit. The law is flexible regarding the business type for this purpose.
What to choose for business registration: sole proprietorship or LLC?
When deciding on a business structure, it's crucial to consider various factors such as business size, employee count, operational scope, and anticipated revenue. The choice often boils down to a sole proprietorship (SP) or a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
A sole proprietorship is simpler to set up, with less paperwork and minimal record-keeping requirements. Financially, it allows easy access to funds and typically involves lower penalties for non-compliance. However, a major downside is personal liability; in the event of bankruptcy, personal assets are at risk.
On the other hand, forming an LLC is more complex, demanding comprehensive accounting and tax reporting. Managing finances, including fund withdrawals and the process of opening or closing the business, is more intricate. Nonetheless, an LLC tends to inspire greater confidence among larger clients. The primary risk associated with an LLC is limited to the amount invested in the business.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to whether a SP or LLC is better. Each option presents its own set of pros and cons that should be carefully weighed. The right choice depends on the specific needs and circumstances of each business.
If you're uncertain about the best structure for your business, consider seeking advice from our experienced professionals. They can help you assess all relevant factors and guide you towards an informed decision.
What documents do I need to submit for maintaining proper accounting records?
New organization:
- You need to submit the certificate of state registration, the organization's charter, and the passport of the director.
Sole proprietorship:
- You need to submit the certificate of state registration and the passport of the sole proprietor (who acts as the director).
Existing business:
- Provide all available accounting and business documents from the past 3 years.
What taxation systems are in force in the RA?
Tax regimes in the Republic of Armenia:
- General tax regime. Unless a company opts for a special tax regime it will be subject to 18% corporate income tax (CIT) and 20% value-added tax (VAT).
- Special tax regime
- Turnover tax
a) A form of a sales tax, with tax rates normally up to 5% , replacing CIT and VAT.
b) Only small businesses with annual sales of less than AMD 115 million (approximately $240,000) can qualify for this tax regime.
- Turnover tax
- Micro-businesses, defined as businesses with annual sales of less than AMD 24 million (approximately $50,000) are exempt from CIT and VAT. However, there is a list of excepted businesses that cannot take advantage of this tax system, such as traders based in the capital city of Yerevan and the majority of service businesses.
In the case of special tax regimes, it is usually easier to calculate and pay taxes.
What tax benefits are available for the IT sector in Armenia?
Armenia offers several tax incentives to promote the growth of the IT sector, as outlined in the 2014 law "On State Support in the Sphere of Information Technologies". These incentives include:
- Profit Tax: The profit tax rate for IT businesses is reduced from 20% to 0%
- Income Tax: Charged at 20%, similar to personal income taxValue Added Tax (VAT): VAT is reduced from the standard 20% to 0%
- Employee Payroll Tax: The minimum employee payroll tax rate is lowered from 23-36% to 10%
- Income Tax on Dividends: A 5% income tax applies to dividends