- AOP late-filing penalty to rise to Rs50,000: sources.
- Add companies’ penalty to increase to Rs100,000.
- Commercial banks to remain open until 10pm on Sept 30.
ISLAMABAD: With the deadline for filing income tax returns for 2026 set to expire on September 30, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has warned taxpayers of hefty penalties, additional tax liabilities, and possible legal action for failing to file their returns on time.
An FBR spokesperson said that September 30 is the final date for filing returns, urging taxpayers to submit all relevant supporting documents along with their returns
According to sources, the government will abolish the late-filer category from October 1. The penalty for filing an income tax return after the deadline will increase from Rs1,000 to Rs25,000.
For an Association of Persons (AOP), the penalty for late filing will rise from Rs10,000 to Rs50,000, while companies will face a penalty of up to Rs100,000, compared with Rs20,000 currently, the sources added.
The spokesperson warned that action could be taken against taxpayers who conceal information about their assets or provide incorrect details. The FBR may also use bank accounts and other available means to recover outstanding tax liabilities.
In a separate social media post, the FBR urged taxpayers not to delay filing, warning that remaining a non-filer could result in heavy fines, additional tax burdens, and legal action.
The tax authority said its modern data systems continuously receive information about taxpayers’ income, assets and financial transactions, and urged taxpayers to provide complete and accurate details in their returns.
The FBR advised taxpayers to file their returns through its website or the Tax Asaan app. Those requiring assistance can contact the FBR helpline or visit the nearest tax office.
The FBR called on taxpayers to fulfil their tax obligations honestly and file their returns by the September 30 deadline to avoid penalties and other legal consequences.
The FBR called on taxpayers to file their returns by the deadline in order to avoid penalties and other legal consequences.
According to documents, nearly 4.88 million income tax returns have been filed so far this tax year, compared to over 3.5 million returns submitted during the previous tax year.
Banks to remain open till 10pm on Sept 30
Meanwhile, the State Bank of Pakistan said that commercial banks will keep their branches open until 10pm on Wednesday to facilitate over-the-counter payment of government duties and taxes.
The central bank said that the extension was made on the FBR’s request. Banks have been directed to keep relevant branches open as long as required for special clearing of government transactions through NIFT.
The central bank also directed commercial banks to ensure uninterrupted availability of internet banking, mobile apps, ATMs and other digital payment channels to facilitate taxpayers.
“The banks shall also ensure uninterrupted availability of their online payment channels i.e. internet banking, mobile applications, ATMs, and other digital platforms to facilitate the online payment of government duties and taxes,” the State Bank of Pakistan added.
