With Pakistan’s tax system rapidly going digital, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has significantly expanded its ability to access real-time digital data of taxpayers in tax year 2026. If you think your financial footprint is limited to tax returns only—think again.
Under Section 175A of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, FBR now has legal authority to obtain live access to databases maintained by multiple government bodies and utility providers, transforming how taxpayers are monitored and documented.
🔍 What Is Section 175A All About?
Section 175A empowers FBR to cross-match taxpayer information using digital records already available with public and private institutions. This access is real-time, meaning data can be viewed instantly without waiting for reports or manual submissions.
🗂 Which Databases Can FBR Access?
Here’s a snapshot of key data sources now linked with FBR:
🆔 Identity & Citizenship
• NADRA: CNIC, NICOP, POC, Alien Registration Cards, and complete citizen profiles.
✈ Travel & Immigration
• FIA & Bureau of Emigration: International travel history, entry/exit records, visas, work permits.
🏠 Property Records
• Provincial & ICT Land Authorities: Digitized land ownership, mutations, and acquisition records.
🚗 Vehicles
• Excise & Taxation Departments: Vehicle registrations, transfers, and ownership history.
⚡ Utilities
• Electricity & Gas Companies: Consumer details, usage, billing, and payment records—including shared connections.
🏛 Other Institutions
• Any agency or organization notified by FBR in the future.
🔐 Is Your Data Protected?
Yes. Section 175A clearly states that:
• All information obtained is strictly for tax purposes
• Data remains confidential, subject to Section 216 of the Ordinance
• FBR must establish secure infrastructure before full real-time integration
⚠ Why This Matters for Taxpayers
• 📊 Lifestyle and asset data can be matched with declared income
• 🚨 Undeclared assets or mismatches may trigger audits or notices
• 📁 Non-filers are more visible than ever
• ✅ Accurate reporting helps avoid penalties and disputes
✅ What You Should Do Now
✔ Ensure your tax returns reflect your actual assets and utilities
✔ Update records where connections or properties are shared
✔ File returns on time to stay compliant
✔ Maintain proper documentation for all major transactions
🎯 Final Takeaway
Section 175A marks a major shift toward data-driven taxation in Pakistan. In tax year 2026, digital silence is no longer an option—FBR already sees what’s on record. Transparency and compliance are now your strongest safeguards.
Stay informed. Stay compliant.
⚠ Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or professional advice. Tax laws, interpretations, and FBR practices may change from time to time. Readers are advised to consult a qualified tax advisor or professional before making any tax-related decisions or taking action based on the information provided.