FBR gives manual tax filers more time, extends deadline to November 30

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has extended the deadline for manual income tax returns till November 30, giving more time to those struggling to adapt to the country’s newly digitised tax system.

The FBR said the move was aimed at supporting a small number of taxpayers who continue to file their returns manually and may face difficulty shifting to online filing. The extension, described as a “special measure,” comes as part of the authority’s broader plan to phase out paper-based submissions and build a fully digital, transparent tax regime across Pakistan.

According to an FBR spokesperson, the board has already stopped accepting manual returns from Tax Year 2024. However, in view of practical challenges faced by some individuals, the board decided to offer temporary relief. “We want a smooth and inclusive transition to online filing. Those who are not yet comfortable with the digital system will be supported through this facilitation,” the spokesperson explained.

Dedicated help cells for manual filers

To ease the process, the FBR has announced that special cells will be set up at all tax offices nationwide. These cells will provide both technical and legal guidance to manual filers, free of cost. Taxpayers can visit their nearest office for assistance with registration, digital access, and submission of returns.

The board said its field offices will also offer free legal consultation for those needing help during the current tax year. Officials believe this support network will make it easier for taxpayers to understand the digital system and eventually shift to online filing without hassle.

The extension has been granted under Section 214A of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, which allows the FBR to relax deadlines when necessary.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to making tax compliance simpler and more accessible,” the spokesperson added. “Our goal is to encourage voluntary compliance through a transparent and efficient digital framework.”

The FBR has encouraged taxpayers to take advantage of this final extension, reminding them that manual filing will soon be phased out completely as Pakistan moves toward a fully digital tax environment.