Tax
How to file your income tax return in Pakistan
6 min read
Filing your income tax return in Pakistan is an annual obligation for most earners. Staying compliant also keeps you on the Active Taxpayer List, which lowers the withholding tax you pay on banking, property and vehicle transactions.
Step 1. Register for an NTN. Before you can file you need a National Tax Number. Registration is done online through the FBR IRIS portal using your CNIC, and it usually takes a short time to complete.
Step 2. Gather your documents. Collect your salary certificate or business income records, bank statements, details of assets and liabilities, and any tax already deducted at source during the year.
Step 3. Declare income and wealth. In IRIS you complete the income tax return and the wealth statement, reconciling the change in your net assets with your declared income for the tax year.
Step 4. File before the deadline. Submitting on time is what places you on the Active Taxpayer List. Late filers can still appear on the list, but usually pay a surcharge first.
If any of this feels daunting, M.W. & Co. files returns for salaried individuals, business owners and companies every year. Send us last year's return and we will quote a fixed fee.
This article is general information, not advice. Contact us to discuss your situation.