Karachi, September 23, 2025 – The Karachi Tax Bar Association (KTBA) has formally raised concerns over the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) online tax portal, IRIS, stating that the system is not fully prepared for smooth income tax return filing for Tax Year 2025.
In a letter addressed to FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, KTBA President Ali A. Rahim highlighted persistent glitches and anomalies in the IRIS platform that are obstructing taxpayers and consultants from filing returns on time. He emphasized that Karachi remains the largest contributor to Pakistan’s tax revenues, and the role of tax consultants—most of whom are members of the Karachi Tax Bar Association (KTBA)—is vital in this process.
The Bar has already sent multiple letters to the FBR, pointing out that IRIS often becomes unresponsive during working hours, with data frequently disappearing from draft returns. Further complications include non-issuance of Section 120 of Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 assessment orders, denial of tax credit on donations against Super Tax, incorrect treatment of profit on debt for non-residents, and the absence of proper notification for SME return forms.
Members also complained that refund applications are unavailable on the portal, and that refund adjustments are processed inconsistently, creating unnecessary hardship. KTBA warned that these unresolved issues undermine taxpayer confidence and disrupt the credibility of Pakistan’s tax administration system.
The Association has urged the FBR to immediately extend the statutory deadline for filing returns until all technical problems are resolved. It also proposed holding a Zoom meeting between the IRIS Committee of KTBA and the FBR team to find workable, long-term solutions for taxpayers and consultants.