So, you’ve heard people say “filer ban jao” or “filer hona zaroori hai,” but you’re still confused about what it really means? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. A lot of people in Pakistan think that becoming a filer is complicated, full of legal jargon, or only for rich businessmen. But that’s not true at all.
In this detailed yet simple guide, I’ll walk you through everything step by step—from what a filer is, why it matters, and exactly how you can become one in Pakistan even if you’re doing a small job or business. No difficult words. No complicated processes. Just easy explanations, real-life examples, and all the information you need to get started right away.
Let’s begin.
What Does It Mean to Be a Filer in Pakistan?
In simple words, a filer is someone who is registered with FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) and regularly files their income tax return. That’s it. Nothing fancy.
If you are a filer, your name appears in the Active Taxpayers List (ATL), which means you’re considered a tax-compliant citizen of Pakistan. It also means the government sees you as someone responsible and law-abiding.
Why Should You Become a Filer?
Becoming a filer comes with a lot of benefits, both financial and practical. Let’s go through them one by one.
You Pay Less Tax on Transactions
This is the biggest benefit. If you’re a non-filer, you pay double or even triple the tax on banking transactions, vehicle registration, property purchases, and even mobile top-ups.
For example, when buying a car:
- Filer might pay Rs. 50,000 tax
- Non-filer could pay Rs. 150,000 or more
Why pay extra when you can save all that money just by filing your return?
Easier to Buy and Sell Property
If you’re involved in buying or selling property, being a filer is a must. In many cases, non-filers are not even allowed to purchase property worth more than Rs. 5 million.
Better Business and Loan Opportunities
Banks and government agencies often prefer working with filers. Want a business loan? Need to open a company account? Being a filer increases your chances.
Peace of Mind and Respect
It feels good to know you’re doing the right thing. Being a filer makes you a responsible citizen, and it earns you respect in business and financial matters.
What Is the FBR? And Why Does It Matter?
FBR stands for Federal Board of Revenue. This is the government department that deals with taxes in Pakistan. It maintains all records of tax filers and non-filers.
Once you register with FBR and start filing your taxes, your name will be added to their Active Taxpayers List, which is published every week.
Who Can Become a Filer in Pakistan?
Almost anyone. You don’t need to be a big businessman. You can become a filer if you are:
- A salaried person
- A freelancer
- A shopkeeper or small business owner
- A student with some income
- A property owner
- A vehicle owner
- Even a housewife receiving some income
If you’re earning anything—even a little—it’s better to become a filer and stay on the safe side.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Filer in Pakistan
Let’s break it down into super simple steps so that even if you’ve never done it before, you’ll understand everything.
Step 1: Get Your NTN (National Tax Number)
NTN is like your tax identity number. It’s free and you only need to get it once. Here’s how you can get your NTN:
Option 1: Online via IRIS (FBR Portal)
- Visit the official website: https://iris.fbr.gov.pk
- Click on “Registration for Unregistered Person”
- Fill out the form (Name, CNIC, address, phone, email)
- You’ll receive an email and SMS with login credentials
- Log in to the IRIS system
Option 2: Through FBR Office
If you’re not comfortable doing it online, you can go to the nearest Regional Tax Office (RTO) with your:
- CNIC copy
- Recent utility bill
- Mobile number
- Email address
They will help you register manually.
Step 2: File Your Tax Return
Once you’ve got your NTN and access to the IRIS system, now it’s time to file your tax return. This is where you tell FBR about your income and expenses.
Even if you have no income (zero income), you still file a return showing that.
Documents Needed:
- CNIC
- Proof of income (salary slip, freelance payment, business details)
- Utility bills (for address verification)
- Bank account details (optional but helpful)
Step 3: Use FBR IRIS System to File Your Return
Here’s how you do it:
- Log in to https://iris.fbr.gov.pk
- Click on “Declaration”
- Select the Tax Year (e.g. 2024)
- Fill in the required sections like:
- Salary or business income
- Deductible allowances
- Tax deductions
- Assets and liabilities
- Review and submit
Sounds complicated? You can always hire a tax consultant or use an online service like Tax Dosti or Hamariweb Tax Filer for a small fee. They’ll handle it for you.
Step 4: Wait for Your Name in the ATL
Once you submit your return, you’ll have to wait a few days to a few weeks for your name to appear in the Active Taxpayer List. You can check it here:
https://www.fbr.gov.pk/active-taxpayers-list
Search your name or CNIC and you’ll know your status.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Filer?
Technically, becoming a filer is free. But if you hire a consultant or use a service, you might pay:
- Rs. 1000 to Rs. 3000 for salaried individuals
- Rs. 3000 to Rs. 8000 for small businesses
It’s a one-time effort that can save you thousands of rupees every year.
What If You Have Zero Income?
No problem! You can still file a “Zero Income Tax Return.” This tells the government that you currently have no income, but you still want to stay active in their system.
This is useful for:
- Students
- Housewives
- Retired people
- Anyone who isn’t earning yet
Can Overseas Pakistanis Become Filers?
Yes, absolutely. Overseas Pakistanis can also become filers if they own property or vehicles in Pakistan, or just want to be on the safe side legally.
They can apply online and use their Pakistani CNIC and contact details for registration.
How Often Do You Need to File Returns?
You only need to file your tax return once a year, usually between July to September. But remember, if you miss the deadline, you’ll be removed from the ATL and become a non-filer again.
So mark your calendar and make sure you file it every year.
How to Stay in the ATL List?
Simple: File your return on time every year. If you forget, your name gets removed and you go back to paying higher taxes.
It’s like renewing your Netflix subscription—don’t miss it, or you lose access.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Giving wrong or fake information
- Forgetting to file yearly
- Not updating contact details
- Ignoring notices from FBR
Play safe. Always provide correct details and respond to any FBR emails or SMS.
Can I Do It Myself or Do I Need a Tax Consultant?
You can do it yourself if you’re tech-savvy and comfortable using online systems. But if you feel confused or don’t want to mess up anything, just hire a registered tax consultant.
Many companies now offer filing services online for very affordable rates.
Conclusion: Being a Filer Is Easy and Totally Worth It
So there you have it—becoming a filer in Pakistan isn’t rocket science. It’s a simple process that saves you money, brings legal peace of mind, and gives you many advantages in financial and property matters.
- You don’t need to be rich or run a big business. Even a student, freelancer, or small shopkeeper can become a filer with a little effort.
- Think of it like joining a VIP list—it’s the smart move.
- If you still haven’t filed your return, maybe it’s time to do it now. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it.
- If you have any questions or need help, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to explain more.
- If you want me to write a guide on filing taxes for freelancers or for salaried employees separately? Let me know!
