Tax Return Deadline Extended
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) of Pakistan has announced a 15-day extension for filing tax returns this year. Taxpayers now have until October 15 to submit their income tax returns, according to an official notification issued by the FBR.
The move comes after requests from trade associations, tax bar organizations, and ordinary citizens, aiming to make the filing process easier and more accessible.
Current Filing Statistics
As of the announcement, over 4 million individuals have already submitted their tax returns, signaling strong compliance among taxpayers. The FBR stated that the extension would help those who have not yet completed the process, especially small business owners and salaried individuals who often face difficulties meeting the original deadline.
Legal Basis for Extension
The extension is being granted under Section 214 of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001, which allows the FBR to modify deadlines in exceptional circumstances. This legal framework ensures that the extension is fully compliant with Pakistan’s tax regulations.
The FBR has also introduced a simplified income tax return form this year, designed to make the filing process more user-friendly. Taxpayers can now submit their returns more easily, even if they are filing for the first time.
Late Filing Penalties Remain
Despite the extension, the FBR has warned that individuals who fail to submit their returns by the new deadline will still be considered late filers. Legal penalties and fines will be imposed on those who miss the October 15 deadline, in accordance with existing tax laws.
“While we are providing relief through this extension, compliance is still mandatory,” an FBR spokesperson said. “Taxpayers must ensure their returns are submitted on time to avoid fines.”
Context: Tax Compliance in Pakistan
Pakistan has historically faced challenges in expanding its tax base. Only a fraction of the population regularly files income tax returns, and the government has been working to improve compliance through simplified forms, digital filing systems, and public awareness campaigns. The recent Finance Bill 2025 also introduced new taxes worth Rs312 billion, adding further importance to timely filing and compliance.
According to recent data, fewer than 2% of Pakistan’s population are registered income taxpayers, making timely filing an ongoing priority for the FBR. Extensions like this one are seen as a pragmatic step to support taxpayers while maintaining enforcement measures.
Simplified Filing and Digital Initiatives
The new simplified return form is part of a broader digital initiative by the FBR. Taxpayers can now file returns online through the FBR’s IRIS portal, reducing paperwork and processing times. Digital filing also allows for quicker acknowledgment and verification of submissions.
Experts suggest that these initiatives could gradually improve voluntary compliance, particularly among small businesses and first-time filers. “Ease of filing is a key factor in increasing participation,” said a tax consultant based in Karachi.
Looking Ahead
With the October 15 deadline approaching, the FBR is urging all remaining taxpayers to complete their returns as soon as possible. Authorities have also indicated that outreach and support services will be available to assist citizens facing difficulties in filing.
The extension demonstrates the FBR’s responsiveness to public concerns while maintaining a firm stance on compliance and enforcement. It highlights the ongoing balancing act between easing taxpayer burdens and ensuring the government meets its revenue targets.
