Introduction
Taxation is an essential part of a country’s economic system, and Pakistan is no exception. Whether you are a salaried individual, a business owner, or an investor, knowing how to check your tax status in Pakistan is crucial for compliance and financial planning. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has made it easier for individuals and businesses to check their tax status online.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of checking your tax details, including tax filer status, tax payments, and tax return filings.
H1: How to Check Your Tax Status in Pakistan
H2: Why Is It Important to Check Your Tax Status?
Being aware of your tax status in Pakistan has multiple benefits, including:
- Ensuring compliance with tax regulations.
- Avoiding penalties for non-filing of tax returns.
- Availing tax benefits and reduced withholding tax rates.
- Keeping track of tax deductions on salaries, property, and business income.
Now, let’s explore the various methods available to check your tax status in Pakistan.
H1: Checking Tax Status via FBR Online System
H2: Method 1 – Checking Active Taxpayer Status (ATL) Online
The Active Taxpayer List (ATL) is a public database of individuals and businesses who have filed their tax returns for the previous year. You can check your tax filer status through the FBR website:
H3: Steps to Check Your ATL Status
- Visit the FBR’s ATL Portal
- Go to https://taxnet.fbr.gov.pk.
- Enter Your CNIC or NTN
- For individuals: Enter your CNIC (without dashes).
- For businesses: Enter your NTN (National Tax Number).
- Verify and Submit
- Click the “Verify” button.
- The system will display whether you are an active taxpayer or not.
H2: Method 2 – Checking Tax Status via SMS
If you don’t have access to the internet, you can check your tax status through SMS.
H3: Steps to Check via SMS
- Open the messaging app on your phone.
- Type ATL (Space) CNIC Number (For example: ATL 1234567890123).
- Send the message to 9966.
- You will receive an SMS response indicating whether you are an active taxpayer.
H1: Checking Your Tax Payments and Returns
H2: Method 3 – Checking Tax Payments on the FBR Portal
To check your tax payments, follow these steps:
H3: Steps to Check Your Tax Payments
- Go to the FBR’s IRIS Portal
- Visit https://iris.fbr.gov.pk.
- Login to Your Account
- Enter your username and password (If you don’t have an account, you need to register).
- Navigate to “Payment History”
- Once logged in, go to the “Tax Payments” section.
- Here, you can view details of your paid taxes and download receipts.
H2: Method 4 – Checking Your Filed Tax Returns
If you have filed your tax returns, you can check their status using the IRIS system.
H3: Steps to Check Filed Tax Returns
- Login to IRIS Portal
- Use your credentials to log in.
- Select “Declarations”
- Under this section, you will find details of your previously filed tax returns.
- Download Your Tax Return
- If needed, you can download a copy for future reference.
H1: How to Become a Tax Filer in Pakistan
If you find that you are not on the Active Taxpayer List (ATL), you need to file your tax returns to regain active status.
H2: Steps to Become a Tax Filer
H3: Step 1 – Register for NTN (National Tax Number)
- Visit the IRIS Portal
- Go to https://iris.fbr.gov.pk.
- Register as a New Taxpayer
- Click “Registration for Unregistered Person” and provide your CNIC, phone number, and email.
- Receive Your NTN
- After verification, your NTN will be issued.
H3: Step 2 – File Your Tax Return
Once you have an NTN, follow these steps:
- Login to IRIS Portal.
- Fill out the income tax return form (Provide details about your income, assets, and expenses).
- Submit Your Tax Return.
H1: Common Issues & Solutions in Checking Tax Status
H2: Issue 1 – Unable to Access the IRIS Portal
Solution: Ensure you have a stable internet connection and try using Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
H2: Issue 2 – Not Receiving SMS from 9966
Solution: Make sure you are using a registered SIM card with your CNIC and try again.
H2: Issue 3 – My Name is Not on the ATL Even After Filing Taxes
Solution: ATL is updated weekly, so check again after a few days.
H1: FAQs on Checking Tax Status in Pakistan
1. How can I check if I am a tax filer in Pakistan?
- You can check your tax filer status online via FBR’s ATL Portal or by sending an SMS to 9966.
2. How can I check my tax payments?
- Log in to the IRIS portal and go to the “Tax Payments” section to view your tax payment history.
3. What should I do if I am not on the ATL?
- You need to file your tax return to be included in the Active Taxpayer List (ATL).
4. Is there a deadline to file tax returns?
- Yes, the deadline is usually September 30 each year, but it can be extended by the FBR.
5. Can I check my tax status without an NTN?
- Yes, you can check your Active Taxpayer Status using your CNIC. However, to file taxes, you need to register for an NTN.
Conclusion
Checking your tax status in Pakistan is now easier than ever, thanks to online portals and SMS verification. By staying updated with your tax obligations, you can avoid penalties, benefit from tax advantages, and contribute to national development.
If you haven’t yet filed your tax returns, it’s time to do so and ensure you remain on the Active Taxpayer List (ATL) for a smooth financial future.
