RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi-Islamabad Tax Bar Association has joined other prominent organizations in requesting a one-month extension for filing income tax returns, pushing the deadline to October 31.

This appeal follows similar demands from the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce. In a formal letter addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, the Tax Bar Association emphasized the need for an extended deadline to alleviate difficulties faced by taxpayers. 

The association noted that the current 15-day extension includes four public holidays, effectively reducing the actual working days available for filing returns. They argued that this limited time frame places undue pressure on both taxpayers and the IRIS system used for filing. The letter warned that a shorter extension could lead to an increase in the number of empty returns being submitted, which would further strain the tax system. By granting a 30-day extension, the association believes taxpayers would have a more manageable timeframe to complete their filings, resulting in a more accurate and effective tax submission process. In parallel, Ajmal Baloch, President of the All Pakistan Traders Association, also called for the FBR to consider extending the tax filing deadline. He highlighted the economic challenges currently facing traders and small business owners, which make timely compliance with tax regulations increasingly difficult.

Baloch pointed out that ongoing system issues have further complicated the filing process, urging the FBR to address these technological hurdles. Baloch stressed that if taxpayers are unable to file their returns due to system failures, the responsibility should not fall on them but rather on the FBR, which is responsible for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the filing system. He indicated that such failures could result in negative consequences for traders, including penalties or fines. The collective calls for an extension reflect a broader concern within the business community regarding the operational challenges posed by the current tax filing requirements. As the deadline approaches, many are hopeful that the government will respond positively to these requests, allowing for a smoother filing process that ultimately benefits both taxpayers and the tax system as a whole. With economic pressures mounting, the extension would not only assist in compliance but also contribute to fostering a more cooperative relationship between taxpayers and tax authorities.