Contradictions Emerge Over FBR’s Latest Statement
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) issued a puzzling clarification on Monday, asserting that no taxpayer who filed an extension application within the prescribed time limit was removed from the Active Taxpayers List (ATL). However, taxpayers and legal experts have challenged the claim, calling it inaccurate and misleading.
The FBR stated that the clarification was necessary due to “misleading reports” circulating on some media platforms regarding the deactivation of a large number of taxpayers.
Extension Filers and System Updates
According to the FBR, all taxpayers who submitted extension applications through the online system within the deadline have automatically received a 15-day grace period, as directed by the FBR Chairman. The authority also confirmed that manual filing of returns has been discontinued following recent amendments to the Income Tax Rules.
The board clarified that the Active Taxpayers List for 2025 would include returns filed for the 2024 tax year and new filers up to November 15, 2025. It also emphasized that Regional Tax Offices (RTOs) had been instructed to assist taxpayers transitioning from manual to electronic filing.
Tax Experts Dispute FBR’s Claims
Despite the FBR’s assurances, several taxpayers report being declared inactive even after filing valid extension applications. A Supreme Court tax lawyer said that the FBR marked him inactive on November 1, despite his October 31 extension request.
He alleged that the same issue affected many taxpayers who applied for extensions before the deadline but did not file their returns by October 31.
Ongoing Confusion and Compliance Challenges
The controversy has raised concerns about the FBR’s digital transition and communication practices. Tax professionals have urged the board to clarify its policies to maintain transparency and taxpayer trust.
