Why is it important for a business to track output and input tax?

Tracking output and input tax is fundamental for businesses primarily to ensure accurate VAT returns and payments. When a business monitors its output tax, which is the VAT charged on sales to customers, it ensures that it is correctly reporting the amount of VAT it has collected. Similarly, by keeping track of input tax, which is the VAT paid on purchases and expenses, the business can accurately determine what VAT it can reclaim from the tax authorities.

This process is crucial not only for compliance with tax regulations but also for maintaining healthy cash flow. Inaccuracies in VAT reporting can lead to penalties, interest on underpayments, or issues with tax authorities during audits. Therefore, rigorous tracking of these taxes supports the integrity of financial statements and the overall financial health of the business.

The other options provided do not relate directly to tax tracking in a way that impacts compliance and financial accuracy, making them less relevant in the context of this question.