FBR Extends Income Tax Return Deadline
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has officially extended the last date for filing income tax returns for the financial year 2024-2025 till October 15, 2025. FBR Extends Income Tax Return Deadline as a relief for taxpayers across Pakistan who were struggling to meet the original deadline of September 30, 2025. The move aims to give individuals and businesses additional time to complete their tax filing obligations without facing penalties.
Why Did FBR Extend the Income Tax Return Filing Deadline?
The decision to extend the deadline was made after receiving numerous requests from business associations, tax professionals, and the general public. The devastating floods in several parts of the country, especially in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh, significantly disrupted normal life and business activities. Moreover, many taxpayers faced technical difficulties with the FBR’s online filing system, known as the IRIS portal, which experienced heavy traffic and slowdowns.
Due to these challenges, the FBR recognized the need to provide taxpayers with more time to file their returns accurately and avoid unnecessary penalties.
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Official Announcement by FBR
In a circular released on Tuesday, the FBR stated that the extension is granted under Section 214(A) of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001. This legal provision allows the tax authority to extend the filing deadline to help taxpayers meet their obligations promptly.
The FBR emphasized that this extension is meant to reduce the burden on those who were unable to comply with the earlier deadline due to unavoidable circumstances.
Earlier Stance of the FBR
Just a day before the extension, the FBR had announced that the last date for filing income tax returns would not be extended beyond September 30. The board urged taxpayers to file their returns “accurately and honestly” by the deadline and warned that anyone failing to do so would face penalties. Late filers were to be classified as defaulters, with fines imposed as per the law.
This firm stance changed in response to growing concerns from various stakeholders about the difficulties many taxpayers were facing.
Business and Trade Bodies Urged for Extension
The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) played a crucial role in requesting the deadline extension. In a formal statement, LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad, along with Senior Vice President Engineer Khalid Usman and Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry, appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and FBR Chairman Rashid Langrial to consider extending the deadline.
They highlighted how the floods and other pressing issues severely impacted business operations, making it difficult for many to comply with the tax deadline. Additionally, they pointed out that the FBR’s online portal was overloaded, causing delays for genuine taxpayers trying to file their returns.
Similarly, the Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industry also requested a 48-day extension, emphasizing the need to accommodate changes in the IRIS portal and ongoing flood relief efforts.
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What Does This Mean for Taxpayers?
This extension gives taxpayers much-needed breathing room to file their income tax returns without rushing or making errors. It also helps avoid late filing penalties that can add to the financial burden of individuals and businesses already facing hardships.
Taxpayers are advised to take advantage of this extension and submit their returns before October 15, 2025, to stay compliant with tax laws. Those who still face issues with the online system can seek help from local tax offices or consultants.
Government’s Balanced Approach
The FBR’s decision to extend the deadline reflects a balanced approach, where the government enforces tax compliance but also recognizes the need to support taxpayers during challenging times. The business community is vital to Pakistan’s economy, and facilitating their tax filing process encourages cooperation and timely revenue collection.
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