Fama Accounting Services, Office 2294, Building 574 Road 31 Block 611 Al Hamriya, Bahrain

VAT Impact Assessment Bahrain

Plan with Confidence: Understand the True VAT Impact on Your Business

As VAT continues to reshape Bahrain’s tax and business landscape, companies must go beyond basic compliance — they need clarity. Our VAT Impact Assessment Bahrain services are designed to give you that clarity. Whether you’re launching a business, entering new markets, or evaluating pricing structures, understanding VAT’s influence on cash flow, margins, and operations is essential.

Our experts dive deep into your specific business model, transactions, and financial structure to evaluate how VAT affects every aspect of your operations. From procurement to invoicing, we map out VAT implications, risks, and opportunities — so you can make informed, confident decisions that drive compliance and profitability.

Get more than a tax service — get a business advantage. With our VAT impact analysis, you’re not just reacting to regulations — you’re getting ahead of them.

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What Is a VAT Impact Assessment?

A VAT impact assessment is a thorough, tailored review of how VAT laws apply to your company’s transactions, financial systems, and industry context. It goes far beyond generic tax advice — it delivers insights that empower real operational change and better decision-making.

We analyze:

  • Transaction structures (domestic, cross-border, inter-GCC, etc.)

  • Supply chains and procurement models

  • Customer billing and pricing systems

  • Contractual obligations

  • Cash flow and working capital impact

  • Sector-specific VAT treatments

  • Compliance exposure and reporting challenges

Our assessment outlines risks, identifies optimization areas, and provides actionable strategies to mitigate VAT-related issues and improve your overall tax position.

 

Who Needs a VAT Impact Assessment?

Our VAT impact assessment in Bahrain is essential for:

  • Newly registered businesses unsure of their VAT obligations

  • Companies restructuring operations or supply chains

  • Businesses entering the Bahraini or GCC market

  • Firms preparing for audits or inspections

  • Organizations in sectors with complex or partially exempt transactions (real estate, finance, education, etc.)

  • Groups implementing ERP or accounting software upgrades

 

Whether you’re a growing SME, a multinational, or a consultancy firm supporting clients, VAT impact assessment is a proactive tool that gives you control and foresight.

 

Key Benefits of VAT Impact Assessment Bahrain

 

1. Minimize Compliance Risk
Avoid penalties, interest, and audit complications by identifying errors in transaction treatment or return preparation early on.

 

2. Improve Cash Flow Forecasting
Understand how timing of VAT liabilities and input credits affects your working capital and liquidity.

 

3. Optimize Pricing Strategies
Make VAT-inclusive and VAT-exclusive pricing decisions with confidence, especially in competitive sectors.

 

4. Streamline VAT Filing and Documentation
Reduce administrative burdens by aligning financial systems and documentation with VAT requirements.

 

5. Industry-Specific Guidance
Each sector faces unique challenges — our impact assessment addresses them head-on with tailored insights.

 

6. Greater Investor and Board Confidence
Demonstrate proactive tax governance and transparency — a key factor in due diligence, fundraising, and strategic planning.

 

Our 4-Step Assessment Approach

 

1. Business Understanding & VAT Objectives
We hold strategy sessions with your finance, tax, and operations teams to understand your business goals and current challenges.

 

2. Data & Document Review
We assess contracts, invoices, supply chain models, financial reports, and tax filings to map how VAT currently flows through your processes.

 

3. Risk & Impact Analysis
We identify compliance risks, areas of inefficiency, and missed opportunities, supported by technical VAT analysis.

 

4. Reporting & Strategic Recommendations
You receive a detailed report with risk ratings, suggested process changes, and compliance action points — all explained in practical language.

 

What We Cover in VAT Impact Assessments

We don’t believe in generic advice — every business is different. Our VAT Impact Assessment Bahrain typically includes:

  • Evaluation of business registration obligations

  • Determining correct VAT treatments for goods/services

  • Analysis of domestic vs. cross-border supplies

  • VAT on imports, exports, and reverse charges

  • Assessment of partial exemptions

  • Review of contractual clauses and invoice formats

  • Review of ERP/accounting system setup for VAT

  • Impact on financial reporting and reconciliations

  • Mapping VAT implications across your supply chain

  • Sector-specific guidance (real estate, F&B, logistics, education, etc.)

 

Why Choose Us for VAT Impact Assessment in Bahrain?

 

✔ Local VAT Experts
We are Bahrain-based specialists with hands-on experience in NBR guidelines, GCC VAT laws, and industry-specific complexities.

 

✔ Customized Advisory
Our solutions are tailored — not copy-paste tax advice. We understand how businesses actually operate and build insights accordingly.

 

✔ Compliance + Strategy
We go beyond ticking boxes. We help you use VAT analysis as a strategic tool to reduce risk, improve profitability, and simplify operations.

 

✔ Trusted by SMEs & Corporates
From local startups to multinationals, businesses across Bahrain rely on our VAT assessments to stay ahead of the curve.

 

When Should You Conduct a VAT Impact Assessment?

  • Pre-registration or pre-expansion

  • Post-merger or group restructuring

  • Before switching ERP/accounting platforms

  • If you’ve faced VAT queries or audit notices

  • When entering new GCC or international markets

  • When rolling out new pricing models or contractual changes

  • After discovering discrepancies or errors in past returns

 

The earlier you assess, the better positioned you are to stay compliant and capitalize on efficiencies.

 

VAT Impact Assessment for Specific Industries

 

Retail & E-Commerce
Handling discounts, promotions, VAT-inclusive pricing, returns, and online sales across borders? We help clarify all VAT touchpoints.

 

Construction & Real Estate
From zero-rated supplies to long-term project billing, we help decode VAT obligations in high-value contracts.

 

Healthcare & Education
Partially exempt sectors need to manage input VAT recovery with precision — we’ll help you calculate and document properly.

 

Financial Services
Understanding VAT implications in exempt revenue streams, intercompany recharges, and outsourced services is critical.

 

Logistics & Freight
Cross-border movements and reverse charge mechanisms require special VAT handling — we’ll ensure you get it right.

 

Let’s Simplify the Complex

VAT isn’t just a tax — it’s a system that touches every transaction. And the more complex your operations, the more crucial it is to understand how VAT affects your business financially and operationally.

Our VAT Impact Assessment Bahrain service is your shortcut to clarity, compliance, and control. We help you eliminate guesswork, mitigate risk, and build a forward-thinking tax strategy rooted in your business reality.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – VAT Impact Assessment Bahrain

 

Q1: What is a VAT impact assessment?
A VAT impact assessment is a detailed evaluation of how VAT regulations affect your business operations, transactions, pricing, and financial flows. It helps identify compliance risks and opportunities for process and tax optimization.

 

Q2: Who needs a VAT impact assessment in Bahrain?
Businesses preparing for VAT registration, expanding, restructuring, or operating in complex sectors (like real estate, education, finance) benefit greatly. It’s also valuable for any company aiming to avoid errors and gain clarity on VAT treatment.

 

Q3: How does it help with compliance?
We assess your processes, documents, and systems to ensure they meet Bahrain’s VAT regulations. This reduces the risk of penalties, late filings, or errors during audits.

 

Q4: Can this assessment help improve cash flow?
Yes. By reviewing your VAT credit cycle, payment timelines, and invoicing methods, we identify ways to better manage cash flow related to VAT obligations.

 

Q5: Is this only for large companies?
Not at all. SMEs benefit just as much. In fact, smaller businesses often have more to gain, as they may lack internal VAT expertise and systems.

 

Q6: Does the assessment include NBR audit preparation?
Yes. We highlight areas where your business could be exposed in case of an audit and help you correct them proactively.

 

Q7: What’s the difference between a VAT impact assessment and a tax audit?
An audit checks past compliance, often reactively. An impact assessment is proactive — it analyzes how VAT applies and what to fix or improve before issues arise.

 

Q8: How long does a VAT impact assessment take?
Depending on the size and complexity of your business, it can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, including review, meetings, and final reporting.

 

Q9: What documents are required?
We’ll typically ask for invoices, contracts, tax returns, financial reports, supply chain flowcharts, and ERP/accounting system details.

 

Q10: Do you provide the assessment in a written report?
Yes. You’ll receive a comprehensive VAT impact report with findings, risks, and practical recommendations.

 

Q11: Will it help with pricing strategies?
Absolutely. We analyze how VAT impacts product/service pricing, profit margins, and customer invoicing to help you adjust your pricing model if needed.

 

Q12: How often should I do a VAT impact assessment?
We recommend once per year or whenever there’s a significant operational, legal, or structural change in your business.

 

Q13: Can this help with international VAT planning?
Yes. If you trade with other GCC or global markets, we assess cross-border VAT treatment and advise on reverse charges, exemptions, and export/import regulations.

 

Q14: Will it support VAT refund claims?
Yes. By ensuring your input VAT treatment is correct, you can confidently submit refund claims and handle related documentation.

 

Q15: What industries do you specialize in?
We’ve worked with businesses in retail, hospitality, real estate, education, healthcare, logistics, finance, and more.

 

Q16: Is this a one-time service or can it be ongoing?
It can be either. Many clients start with a one-time assessment and then choose to conduct annual reviews or schedule quarterly VAT health checks.

 

Q17: What if we’ve already registered for VAT?
Great — this assessment will check if you’re applying VAT correctly and help you fix inefficiencies or risks in your existing setup.

 

Q18: Can it uncover savings or efficiencies?
Definitely. Many clients find missed input VAT credits, overpaid taxes, or inefficient reporting processes that can be improved.

 

Q19: Can this support ERP or accounting software setup?
Yes. We align your system configurations with correct VAT logic and help map your tax codes accurately.

 

Q20: Will my team be involved?
Yes. We collaborate closely with your finance, procurement, sales, and operations teams to understand workflows and ensure smooth implementation.

Get a Free Quote

Minimize risks and maximize growth with our comprehensive accounting solutions in Bahrain.

Write to Us

Pricing

VAT Services Pricing

Below is an overview of our general pricing packages for our VAT services in Barain. Costs vary depending on factors such as the services we offer.

Basic Package

BHD 20 /Month

Essential VAT compliance services for startups and small businesses, including filing and registration.

Standard Package

BHD 50 /Month

Enhanced VAT support with filing, reporting, and expert advisory services.

Premium Package

BHD 100 /Month

Comprehensive VAT services for larger enterprises, including audit support and strategic tax optimization.

Testimonials

What Clients Say About Us

Read some reviews and success stories from our loyal customers who achieved their goals and how our expert solutions have made a lasting impact on their growth, compliance, and financial clarity. Your success is our greatest achievement!

    Maria Luise Lackner

    Client

    I am so happy to have chosen this company! Right from the start it was a very easy decision, I knew I am in the right hands. They contacted me with every update they had and always kept me up to date with all the information and steps that we will proceed next.

      Aya Alsalman

      Client

      Highly recommend for anyone looking to establish a company in Bahrain! Waqas Akram and his team made the entire process smooth and stress-free. They were incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and handled every detail with professionalism.

        Meghaa Muraleedharan

        Client

        The team was highly professional, efficient, and knowledgeable. They ensured that all paperwork and procedures were handled smoothly, saving us both time and effort. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking out there.

          Joseph Dawber

          Client

          Abdullah and the team have been great in assisting me with related tasks. In challenging timeframes they've supported me to ensure our company operations can start in Bahrain without any issues. Thank you. I will recommed their services.

            Jennifer Giannosa

            Client

            I was extremely impressed with their services. Their expertise made everything smooth and hassle-free. I highly recommend Setup in Bahrain for anyone looking for their business here. Their professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction are top-notch.

            What Makes Us the Best Choice?

            With years of experience and a highly qualified team, we bring unmatched expertise and in-depth knowledge of Bahrain’s financial landscape to every service we provide.

            Personalized & Tailored Approach

            Years of Experience & Unmatched Expertise

            Comprehensive Solutions Under One Roof

            Accuracy, Reliability, and Client Satisfaction

            Post-Implementation VAT Review

            A VAT impact assessment shouldn’t be a one-time exercise. Many businesses implement VAT processes and assume all is well — until an audit or penalty proves otherwise. Our post-implementation review checks whether the current setup aligns with NBR guidelines, ensures correct application of input and output VAT, and verifies that return submissions reflect actual transaction flows. This step is crucial for businesses that registered early during VAT rollout and may still carry legacy errors.

             

            Assessment of Group VAT Structures

            If your business operates as a group with multiple entities, VAT implications become more complex. We assess intercompany transactions, shared costs, centralized functions, and potential eligibility for group VAT registration (if allowed under current NBR regulations). Getting this right can reduce VAT leakage and streamline compliance.

             

            Pricing and Profit Margin Analysis Under VAT

            VAT isn’t just a tax issue — it affects pricing strategy and customer perception. We assess how VAT inclusion/exclusion impacts your listed prices, gross profit margins, and competitive positioning. This is especially critical for price-sensitive sectors like retail, F&B, or services. We also advise on communicating VAT to customers transparently to avoid disputes or confusion.

             

            Review of Third-Party Contracts and Vendor Agreements

            Many VAT risks originate from poorly structured contracts. We examine third-party agreements to ensure that VAT clauses are included, responsibilities are clearly defined, and invoice treatment aligns with contractual terms. This prevents surprises during audits and ensures proper input VAT recovery.

             

            Reverse Charge Mechanism Assessment

            For businesses importing goods or services, understanding and correctly applying the reverse charge mechanism is vital. We analyze how your team handles imported services, whether reverse charge VAT is correctly reported, and if any credits are missed due to documentation gaps.

             

            Sector-Based VAT Benchmarking

            Curious how your VAT practices compare to others in your industry? We offer benchmarking insights, identifying how businesses in similar sectors manage VAT registration thresholds, pricing with VAT, and system setup. This gives you perspective on best practices and compliance norms within Bahrain’s business environment.

             

            Employee Expense and Reimbursement VAT Audit

            Do you recover VAT on eligible business expenses? Most companies miss out on legitimate input VAT credits due to informal expense handling. We assess employee reimbursements, petty cash claims, and vendor payments to identify reclaimable VAT — helping you improve cash flow and reduce tax leakage.

             

            Training Recommendations Based on Assessment

            After completing your VAT impact assessment, we don’t leave you with a cold report. We also recommend training modules for relevant staff — from procurement to sales — to reinforce compliant behavior and reduce reliance on external advisors over time. This upskills your team and builds long-term resilience.

             

            Support During NBR Queries or VAT Inspections

            If our assessment uncovers risks or weaknesses that may attract attention from Bahrain’s NBR, we’ll support you in preparing for possible queries, inspections, or audits. This includes documentation review, correcting past returns, and simulating audit questions. Prevention is better than penalty.

             

            Integration with Accounting & ERP Systems

            Your accounting software must reflect your VAT strategy. We ensure your chart of accounts, tax codes, and transaction entries are correctly mapped for automated VAT processing. Whether you use Zoho, Tally, QuickBooks, SAP, or Odoo — we help align system logic with NBR compliance.

            Why Accounting & VAT Compliance is Crucial in Bahrain

            With the introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) in Bahrain, businesses must ensure they are fully compliant with local regulations to avoid fines and maintain smooth operations. Our services ensure:

            Accurate VAT calculations and filings.

            Error-free bookkeeping for tax audits.

            Cost savings through VAT optimization strategies.

            Peace of mind knowing your financials are in expert hands.

            Improved business credibility and investor confidence.

            Seamless regulatory compliance for local and international operations.

             
             

            Who Needs Our Accounting & VAT Services?

            Our services cater to businesses of all sizes and industries operating in Bahrain, including:

            📌 Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) – Streamline accounting processes and tax compliance.

            📌 Startups & Entrepreneurs – Affordable and efficient accounting solutions to manage finances.

            📌 Retail & E-Commerce Businesses – VAT compliance for online and offline transactions.

            📌 Construction & Real Estate Companies – VAT advisory on industry-specific transactions.

            📌 Corporate Entities & Large Businesses – Advanced accounting strategies for profitability.

            📌 Freelancers & Consultants – Hassle-free tax reporting and financial planning.

            📌 Manufacturing & Trading Companies – Optimize VAT compliance on goods and imports.

            📌 Service-Based Businesses – Financial management for professional service providers.

            How Our Accounting & VAT Services Work

            📌 Step 1: Consultation & Assessment – Understanding your business needs.

            📌 Step 2: Implementation of Accounting & VAT Systems – Setting up cloud-based solutions.

            📌 Step 3: Ongoing Compliance & Reporting – Monthly financial management and VAT filings.

            📌 Step 4: Audit Support & Advisory – Ensuring full regulatory compliance and business growth.

            📌 Step 5: Financial Analysis & Growth Planning – Helping businesses scale with strong financial planning.

             
             

            Avoid VAT Penalties & Ensure Financial Accuracy

            🚨 Did you know? Businesses failing to comply with Bahrain’s VAT regulations can face penalties up to BHD 10,000 for late or incorrect filings! Our experts ensure:

            Timely VAT returns & error-free financial statements.

            Accurate record-keeping for VAT reclaims & audits.

            Guidance on VAT-exempt and zero-rated transactions.

            VAT risk assessment & compliance checks to avoid fines.

            Optimized tax strategies to enhance profitability.

            Assistance with government tax incentives and rebates.

             
             

            Why Businesses Trust Us

            🔹 Certified Accountants & VAT Specialists with deep industry expertise.

            🔹 Customized Accounting & VAT Solutions for every business.

            🔹 Reliable, Transparent, and Affordable Services.

            🔹 100% Compliance Guarantee with Bahrain’s financial laws.

            🔹 Cloud-Based, Secure, and Efficient Accounting Processes.

            🔹 End-to-End Financial Support from Bookkeeping to Tax Advisory.

            🔹 Trusted by Hundreds of Businesses Across Bahrain.

            Ensuring compliance with Bahrain’s financial laws and regulations.

            Accounting is not just about tracking income and expenses; it plays a key role in a company’s success by:

            • Ensuring compliance with Bahrain’s financial laws and regulations.

            • Providing accurate financial insights for informed decision-making.

            • Helping businesses optimize tax planning and VAT compliance.

            • Enhancing transparency and credibility with investors and stakeholders.

            • Supporting business growth through strategic budgeting and forecasting.

            Whether you handle accounting in-house or outsource accounting services in Bahrain, having a well-structured accounting system is non-negotiable for success.

             

             

            Why Choose Our Accounting & VAT Services?

            Expert Accountants & VAT Specialists – We handle everything from bookkeeping to VAT filing.

            100% Compliance with Bahrain’s Tax Laws – Avoid penalties and late filings.

            Accurate & Transparent Financial Reporting – Essential for decision-making and audits.

            Cost-Effective & Scalable Solutions – Tailored accounting services for businesses of all sizes.

            Cloud-Based Accounting & VAT Automation – Secure and efficient financial management.

            Industry-Specific Expertise – Customized solutions for various business sectors.

            Dedicated Support – Personalized assistance for financial planning and compliance.

             

            Regulatory Framework for Accounting in Bahrain

             

            1. Key Regulatory Authorities

            Various regulatory bodies govern Bahrain’s accounting landscape, ensuring businesses adhere to financial reporting and compliance requirements.

            Regulatory AuthorityRole in Accounting Compliance
            Ministry of Industry & Commerce (MOIC)Oversees business registrations, financial regulations, and commercial compliance.
            Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB)Regulates financial institutions, banks, and investment firms in Bahrain.
            National Bureau for Revenue (NBR)Governs VAT registration, compliance, and reporting.
            Bahrain Commercial Companies Law (BCCL)Mandates financial record-keeping, audits, and reporting for companies.
            International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)Global accounting standard applied in Bahrain for financial transparency.

            Key Takeaway: Businesses operating in Bahrain must maintain accurate accounting records, submit periodic financial reports, and comply with VAT regulations to avoid penalties.

             
             

            Accounting Standards in Bahrain

            Bahrain follows International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), ensuring businesses align with global best practices. The Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) standards also apply to Islamic finance institutions operating in Bahrain.

            Accounting StandardApplicable Businesses
            IFRSPublic companies, multinational corporations, financial institutions
            IFRS for SMEsSmall and medium enterprises (SMEs)
            AAOIFIIslamic financial institutions

            Companies are required to maintain financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports, adhering to IFRS principles.

             
             

            Essential Accounting Services for Businesses in Bahrain

            Businesses in Bahrain can benefit from a range of accounting services that streamline operations and ensure compliance.

             

            1. Bookkeeping Services

            Accurate bookkeeping ensures every financial transaction is recorded properly. This includes:

            • Recording daily transactions.

            • Managing accounts payable and receivable.

            • Reconciling bank statements.

             

            2. VAT Accounting & Compliance

            Bahrain implemented VAT (Value Added Tax) at 10%, requiring businesses to:

            • Register for VAT with the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR).

            • File VAT returns on time to avoid penalties.

            • Maintain proper VAT invoicing and compliance documentation.

             

            3. Payroll Management

            Efficient payroll management ensures timely salary payments while complying with Bahrain’s labor laws.

            • Monthly salary processing.

            • End-of-service benefits calculation.

            • WPS (Wage Protection System) compliance.

             

            4. Financial Reporting & Auditing

            Businesses must maintain annual financial statements for tax reporting and auditing purposes.

            • Preparation of balance sheets, profit & loss statements, and cash flow reports.

            • Conducting internal and external audits.

            • Ensuring compliance with MOIC and CBB regulations.

             

            5. Accounting Software Solutions

            Many businesses in Bahrain use accounting software like:

            • Zoho Books (for SMEs & startups)

            • QuickBooks (for cloud-based accounting)

            • Tally ERP (for large enterprises)

            • Odoo ERP (for automated accounting & reporting)

             
             

            Challenges in Accounting and How to Overcome Them

             

            1. Keeping Up with Regulatory Changes

            Solution: Work with an experienced accounting firm in Bahrain to stay updated on new tax laws and compliance regulations.

             

            2. VAT Filing Mistakes

            Solution: Use automated accounting software or outsource VAT compliance to professionals.

             

            3. Managing Payroll and Employee Benefits

            Solution: Implement cloud-based payroll systems to ensure error-free salary processing.

             

            4. Financial Reporting Errors

            Solution: Conduct periodic audits and use standardized accounting frameworks like IFRS.

             
             

            FAQs About Accounting in Bahrain

             

            1. Is VAT registration mandatory for businesses in Bahrain?

            Yes, businesses with an annual turnover above BHD 37,500 must register for VAT in Bahrain.

             

            2. What accounting software is recommended for Bahrain businesses?

            Zoho Books, QuickBooks, Tally ERP, and Odoo are popular choices for Bahrain companies.

             

            3. Do I need an external audit for my business?

            Yes, all businesses in Bahrain must undergo an annual external audit as per the Bahrain Commercial Companies Law.

             

            4. Can I outsource accounting services in Bahrain?

            Yes, many businesses choose to outsource accounting in Bahrain to specialized firms for cost efficiency and compliance.

             

            Legal Framework for Accounting in Bahrain

             

            Bahraini Accounting Standards (BAS)

            Bahrain has adopted the Bahraini Accounting Standards (BAS), which are aligned with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). These standards ensure consistency, transparency, and comparability of financial statements across businesses.

             

             

            International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)

            Most businesses in Bahrain are required to prepare their financial statements in accordance with IFRS. These globally recognized standards enhance the credibility of financial reports and facilitate international business operations.

             

            Taxation Laws and Regulations

            Bahrain’s taxation system is relatively simple compared to other countries. Key taxes include:

            • Value Added Tax (VAT): Introduced in 2019, VAT is levied at a standard rate of 5% on most goods and services.

            • Corporate Tax: Bahrain does not impose corporate tax on most businesses, except for oil and gas companies, which are subject to a 46% tax rate.

            • Withholding Tax: A 5% withholding tax is applied to royalties, interest, and other payments made to non-residents.

             

            Conclusion: Professional Accounting Matters in Bahrain

            Whether you’re a small business or a multinational company, having accurate, compliant, and strategic accounting in Bahrain is essential for success. From VAT compliance and bookkeeping to financial reporting and auditing, the right accounting partner can save you time, money, and legal troubles.

            Get Started Today! If you need expert accounting in Bahrain, contact us for a free consultation and discover how our tailored services can benefit your business.

            Get a Free Quote

            Minimize risks and maximize growth with our comprehensive accounting solutions in Bahrain.

            Write to Us