The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has found itself at the center of controversy following its recent clarification regarding the FBR Active Taxpayers List 2025. In an official statement released on Monday, the authority claimed that no taxpayer who filed an extension request within the prescribed time limit had been removed from the Active Taxpayers List. However, tax experts and affected individuals have strongly challenged this assertion, calling the clarification misleading and inconsistent with actual events.
The issue gained attention after several taxpayers reported being declared “inactive” despite submitting extension applications before the October 31 deadline. The confusion has intensified public criticism of the FBR’s digital compliance process, raising questions about transparency and procedural accuracy within the department’s online filing system.
FBR’s Official Clarification
According to the clarification issued by the FBR, misleading media reports had suggested that a large number of taxpayers were declared inactive without justification. The board emphasized that all taxpayers who submitted extension applications within the due date were automatically granted a 15-day filing extension, as per the directives of the FBR Chairman.
The FBR reiterated that the Active Taxpayers List 2025 would be based on returns filed for Tax Year 2024, including all new filers who submit their returns up to November 15, 2025. The board also highlighted that manual filing of tax returns has been discontinued, with all submissions now required to be processed electronically.
Automatic Extensions for Timely Applicants
To minimize inconvenience, taxpayers who filed extension requests through the online system before the deadline have been given a 15-day automatic extension. The system was designed to approve these requests without manual intervention. FBR officials noted that this automation was introduced to ensure consistency and fairness in processing, as part of the department’s ongoing digitalization reforms.
However, individuals who previously relied on manual return filing have been granted a one-month grace period to adapt to e-filing procedures. The FBR has instructed all Regional Tax Offices (RTOs) to assist such taxpayers in completing the transition smoothly.
Contradicting Ground Reality
Despite these assurances, reports from taxpayers and tax professionals tell a different story. Multiple individuals claim that they were marked inactive on November 1—even though they submitted extension requests by October 31.
Supreme Court tax lawyer Waheed Shahad Butt stated that his extension application was filed on time but he was still declared inactive by the FBR system. “The FBR’s clarification is factually incorrect,” he told ProPakistani. “This same issue has affected countless filers who applied for an extension on October 31 but missed the actual return submission deadline.”
This contradiction between official statements and taxpayer experiences has fueled widespread criticism, with experts demanding greater accountability and real-time system transparency.
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Digitalization and Compliance Challenges
The FBR’s push for full digitalization aims to simplify Pakistan’s tax ecosystem, yet frequent system glitches and policy inconsistencies have frustrated many taxpayers. The removal of manual filing options was meant to streamline processes, but the sudden shift has left some users struggling with technical issues and unclear communication.
In recent amendments to the Income Tax Rules, the FBR officially ended manual filing to promote efficiency and prevent misuse. However, many small businesses and individual filers argue that the new system lacks proper user guidance and adequate support.
How the Active Taxpayers List 2025 Works
| Category | Filing Requirement | Status on ATL |
|---|---|---|
| Taxpayers who filed return for TY 2024 | Automatically active | ✅ Active |
| Taxpayers who applied for extension before Oct 31 | Active till Nov 15, 2025 | ⏳ Temporarily active |
| Taxpayers who missed filing or did not apply | Inactive | ❌ Inactive |
| Manual filers granted grace period | Active till Dec 1, 2025 | 🕒 Active (temporary) |
This table highlights the new structure of the FBR Active Taxpayers List 2025, showing that the department intends to include all compliant individuals by mid-November.
Tax Community’s Reaction
Tax lawyers, accountants, and business owners have voiced strong criticism of the FBR’s communication strategy. They argue that inconsistent messaging damages taxpayer confidence and undermines the credibility of ongoing reform efforts.
Several experts on social media have urged the FBR to publicly publish a verified list of extension-approved filers to eliminate confusion. Others have demanded that the digital system be updated in real time to reflect extension approvals accurately, preventing wrongful “inactive” tagging.
FBR’s Commitment to Transparency
Despite the criticism, the FBR insists it remains committed to ensuring fairness, compliance, and facilitation for all genuine taxpayers. Officials claim that the FBR’s new centralized e-filing system will improve data accuracy, reduce human error, and enhance taxpayer services once the transitional challenges are resolved.
The department has also pledged to continue public awareness campaigns about filing deadlines, electronic procedures, and the importance of maintaining an active taxpayer status for business transactions, vehicle registration, and property transfers.
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Official Response and Next Steps
An FBR spokesperson confirmed that the system is being reviewed to address any technical discrepancies. Regional offices have been directed to verify extension requests that were mistakenly flagged. The board also plans to issue an updated list by November 15, 2025, to ensure all valid filers are included in the Active Taxpayers List 2025.
Until then, taxpayers are encouraged to log in to the FBR online portal, check their status, and contact their RTOs for clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About FBR Active Taxpayers List 2025
1. What is the FBR Active Taxpayers List 2025?
It is a list of individuals and businesses who have filed their income tax returns for Tax Year 2024 and are eligible for various benefits like reduced withholding tax and priority in government dealings.
2. How can I check my name in the FBR Active Taxpayers List?
You can check your ATL status online through the official FBR portal at https://www.fbr.gov.pk by entering your CNIC or NTN number.
3. What happens if I filed an extension but not the return?
If your extension was approved, your ATL status will remain active until the new extended deadline (November 15, 2025). After that, it will turn inactive unless the return is filed.
4. Can manual filers remain active?
Manual filing has been discontinued, but such filers have been granted a one-month facilitation period to shift to online returns.
5. When will the updated ATL 2025 be published?
The new ATL for 2025 will be finalized and uploaded by November 15, 2025, after verifying all extension applications.
6. What if my name is missing from the ATL despite filing?
You can lodge a complaint or verification request with your Regional Tax Office (RTO), providing proof of filing and payment acknowledgment.
7. What are the benefits of being on the Active Taxpayers List?
Active taxpayers enjoy reduced tax rates, quicker refund processing, and eligibility for various government incentives and contracts.
8. Why is there criticism over FBR’s clarification?
Critics claim that the FBR’s statement conflicts with real experiences, as many taxpayers were marked inactive despite timely extension filings, leading to frustration and mistrust.
Conclusion
The FBR Active Taxpayers List 2025 controversy highlights Pakistan’s ongoing struggle to balance digital transformation with administrative transparency. While FBR’s automation efforts are commendable, miscommunication and system delays have damaged public trust.
Tax experts emphasize that a transparent, real-time verification system and better communication channels can rebuild taxpayer confidence. Until then, the FBR must ensure that its clarifications align with ground realities — not contradict them — to truly support compliance and fairness in Pakistan’s tax framework.