Karachi, July 14, 2025 – If you’re a taxpayer in Pakistan, now’s the time to pay close attention. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has officially released the schedule for the Active Taxpayers List (ATL) for the tax year 2025—and the countdown has already begun.
So, what does this mean for you?
According to sources within the FBR, the updated ATL will be published the very next day after the return filing deadline expires. That deadline? For salaried individuals, business persons, Association of Persons (AOPs), and companies operating on a special accounting year, the final date to file your returns is September 30, 2025.
But there’s a twist—so far, the FBR has not finalized the income tax return forms for 2025. This has fueled speculation that the return filing deadline may be extended. Still, taxpayers are being strongly advised to prepare early and stay alert for any updates from the FBR.
Why is the ATL important?
If your name appears on the ATL, it means you’re recognized as a compliant taxpayer, which brings several benefits. These include reduced tax rates on banking transactions, property transfers, and other financial dealings. Missing the deadline could cost you—not just in terms of surcharges, but also in lost incentives.
A major change came into effect through SRO 1638(I)/2024, issued on October 18, 2024, when the FBR decided to overhaul the ATL system. Instead of updating it weekly, the ATL is now revised daily, ensuring a more responsive and accurate record of active taxpayers. This also means that once you file your return—even after the due date—you can still be included in the ATL, provided you pay the applicable surcharge under Section 182A of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001.
To qualify for inclusion in the ATL, individuals must file their returns within the deadline as outlined in Section 118 or under any extensions granted by the Commissioner or the FBR itself.
So, whether you’re a salaried professional or a business owner, now is the perfect time to get organized. Keep an eye on official announcements, prepare your documents, and file your returns on time. Being on the ATL isn’t just about compliance—it’s about financial empowerment.