KARACHI: The Pakistan Tax Bar Association (PTBA) has formally requested the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to extend the deadline for filing income tax returns for the tax year 2018 to April 30, 2019.
In a letter addressed to the FBR chairman, the PTBA expressed its appreciation for the recent extension granted, which moved the deadline to March 31, 2019, as communicated through Circular No. 02 of 2019. “This shows the present government’s commitment to facilitate taxpayers and broaden the tax base,” the PTBA noted in its correspondence.
The PTBA highlighted that the extension has had a positive impact, with a significant number of tax returns being filed daily. The association anticipates that this number will continue to rise as the current deadline approaches. However, they also pointed out that numerous returns are still in the initiation stage and may not be completed and filed by the end of March.
“We are receiving information from tax practitioners across the country that their large number of clients would like to avail the opportunity of becoming tax filers. However, it may be noted that many tax returns are under initiation stage and may not be able to be filed within the given time,” the PTBA stated in their letter.
The PTBA emphasized the importance of allowing additional time to accommodate the remaining filers. This extension, they argue, would not only facilitate taxpayers but also contribute to a broader tax base by enabling more individuals to fulfill their tax obligations.
“Under the circumstances explained above, kindly extend the date for filing of return and payment of tax for the tax year 2018 up to April 30, 2019,” the PTBA requested.
The request highlights the ongoing challenges faced by taxpayers and tax practitioners in meeting deadlines, and the PTBA’s proactive role in advocating for measures that support the taxpayer community. The FBR’s response to this request will be crucial in determining the ease with which taxpayers can comply with their obligations in the current tax year.
As the deadline approaches, taxpayers and practitioners alike are keenly awaiting the FBR’s decision, which will significantly impact the filing process and the overall tax compliance rate for the year.