FBR should simplify tax filing

Summary

• The increase in returns reflects growing participation in the tax system, as the government seeks to widen the tax base and bring more people into the formal economy.
• The addition of 1.3 million new filers is an opportunity to build public confidence in the tax system.
• Broadening the tax base should also mean bringing untaxed sectors into the system instead of placing an excessive burden on existing taxpayers.

AI Generated Summary

October 2, 2026

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is considering a 15-day extension in the income tax return filing deadline for Tax Year 2026 following requests from business organisations and tax professionals. The existing deadline expired on September 30, while around 5.2 million returns had been submitted by Wednesday, including nearly 1.3 million from new taxpayers. The figure is considerably higher than the approximately 3.2 million returns filed during the same period last year. The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and the Pakistan Tax Bar Association have sought additional time, citing difficulties in completing returns and arranging supporting documents. Business representatives have also approached Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for an extension. The FBR is reviewing these requests, but no formal notification has been issued. Until an official announcement is made, taxpayers are required to follow the existing deadline. The increase in returns reflects growing participation in the tax system, as the government seeks to widen the tax base and bring more people into the formal economy.