The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced special facilitation measures for manual income tax filers, aiming to ensure a smooth transition as Pakistan moves toward a fully digital tax filing system.

In a statement, the FBR confirmed that manual income tax return filing has been abolished starting from the tax year 2024, in line with the government’s broader push for digitalization and transparency.

However, recognizing the challenges faced by manual filers in adapting to the new system, the FBR has introduced special assistance programs and extended filing deadlines to help taxpayers comply with ease.

Deadline extended

Under Section 214A of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, the FBR has extended the last date for manual filers to submit their income tax returns to November 30.

Officials clarified that this extension applies exclusively to taxpayers who previously filed manual returns, providing them additional time to complete registration and transition to online filing.

“This measure ensures that no taxpayer is left behind in the digital transformation of Pakistan’s tax system,” the FBR said in its announcement.

Special facilitation cells

To assist taxpayers during this transition, the FBR has established special cells in all tax offices nationwide. These cells will provide comprehensive legal and technical support to manual filers free of cost, ensuring they can successfully file their returns online.

Manual taxpayers are encouraged to visit their respective regional tax offices, where they will receive step-by-step guidance for registration and online filing.

In addition, FBR field offices have been instructed to provide legal assistance at no cost to taxpayers who require help during the filing process.