How to Become Filer in Pakistan Online Complete Details
In Pakistan, becoming a filer means that your name is included in the Active Taxpayers List (ATL) maintained by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Being a filer brings you many financial benefits, such as reduced tax rates on banking transactions, property purchases, vehicle registration, and more.
How to Register – Step by Step
Option 1: Online Registration (Easiest Method)
- Visit the FBR website: Go to https://iris.fbr.gov.pk
- Create your account: Click “Sign Up” and enter your CNIC, mobile number, and email address
- Verify your identity: You’ll receive an OTP (one-time password) on your phone to confirm
- Fill in your details: Provide information about your income, employment, and other required details
- Get your NTN: Once submitted, you’ll receive your National Tax Number via SMS or email
Option 2: In-Person Registration
If you’re not comfortable with online registration:
- Visit your nearest FBR Tax Facilitation Center
- Bring all your original documents
- Fill out the registration form with help from staff
- You should receive your NTN within 1-2 working days
Filing Your Annual Tax Return
After registration, you need to file your tax return every year. Here’s how:
- Log in to your IRIS account
- Choose the right form:
- Salaried individuals: Form 114
- Business owners/professionals: Form 115
- Enter your income details: Include all sources like salary, rent, business profits
- Claim deductions: You can reduce your tax by including expenses like Zakat, charity, or medical bills
- Pay any due taxes: The system will calculate what you owe, which you can pay through banks or mobile wallets
- Get your receipt: You’ll receive a confirmation once submitted
Collect Required Documents
Before filing your return, keep the following documents ready:
- CNIC
- Salary slips (for salaried individuals)
- Bank statements
- Utility bills (optional)
- Business income or expense details (for business owners)
- Property or vehicle ownership documents (if applicable)
How to Check If You Are a Filer?
You can verify your filer status in two ways:
Method 1: FBR Website
- Go to: https://www.fbr.gov.pk/atl
- Enter your CNIC or NTN.
- Check your name and ATL status.
Method 2: SMS
- Type your CNIC (without dashes) and send it to 9966
- You’ll receive a message with your filer or non-filer status
Why Should You Become a Filer?
Here are the main benefits of becoming a filer in Pakistan:
- Lower tax rates on property, vehicles, and banking transactions
- Better reputation with financial institutions
- Easier access to bank loans and credit cards
- Required for starting a business or registering a company
- Helps avoid penalties and higher withholding taxes
- Makes you a responsible and law-abiding citizen
Who Can Become a Filer?
Anyone can become a filer in Pakistan, including:
- Salaried individuals
- Business owners
- Freelancers and online earners
- Landlords or property owners
- Students with part-time income
- Anyone earning money in any legal form
Filing Deadline (2025)
- For salaried individuals and sole proprietors: Usually September 30
- For companies and AOPs: As per FBR’s annual tax calendar
- You must file before the deadline to be listed in ATL without a surcharge.
What If I File After the Deadline?
You can still become a filer after the deadline, but:
- You’ll need to pay a late filing penalty (minimum Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 20,000 depending on your category).
- Your name will appear in ATL only after paying the ATL surcharge (e.g., Rs. 1,000 for individuals).
Important Tips
- Always use a valid email and phone number during registration.
- Double-check all information before submitting.
- Save a copy of your return and acknowledgment receipt.
- Keep filing every year to stay in ATL.
- If you stop filing, you’ll be removed from ATL and treated as a non-filer again.
Penalties for Non-Filers
Being a non-filer comes with several disadvantages:
- Higher withholding taxes (on cash withdrawal, vehicle purchase, property, etc.)
- Ineligibility for some government schemes and jobs
- Greater chances of tax notices and audits
- Penalties and fines for not filing income tax
Conclusion
Becoming a filer in Pakistan is not difficult, but it requires awareness, preparation, and timely action. By registering with the FBR, filing your income tax return through IRIS, and staying updated, you can enjoy several benefits and build a better financial reputation. In a country where tax compliance is crucial for national development, becoming a filer is not just a legal duty but a mark of responsible citizenship.
