In today’s digital age, being tax-compliant is easier than ever. Many Pakistanis don’t realize how important it is to know their filer status. Whether you are a salaried individual, freelancer, business owner or property investor—knowing your position with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is crucial.
This detailed guide will walk you through how to check the filer status, step by step, using official online methods by the FBR.
What is a Filer?
In Pakistan, a filer is someone whose name appears in the FBR`s Active Taxpayer List (ATL). This means the individual or business has filed their income tax return for the relevant year.
Being a filer provides many financial benefits, especially lower tax rates on
- Banking transactions
- Property purchases and sales
- Car registration
- Token taxes
- Cash withdrawals
- Imports and exports
- Dividend and profit withdrawals
In contrast, non-filers are charged significantly higher taxes and may even face penalties or restrictions on certain transactions.
Read more: Between Filer and Non-Filer
Why Check Your Filer Status?
Performing an FBR filer status check online is important because
- Your filer status can change if you don’t file on time.
- Some banks or property offices may require proof of ATL inclusion.
- It can save you from paying unnecessary taxes or penalties.
How to Check FBR Filer Status?
If you are a taxpayer in Pakistan. Staying updated with tax laws is essential. One key step is to check whether you are listed as an Active Taxpayer. Generally, you can verify your Active Taxpayer Status in three easy ways.
- Online
- Through SMS
- Downloading Active Taxpayer List (ATL)
1. Check FBR Filer Status Online
The FBR provides a simple method to verify your status through their website.
Select Parameter type➡️Enter Registration No➡️Fill Captcha➡️Click ‘Verify’.
Now, let’s discuss in steps.
Step 1: Visit the Official FBR ATL Portal
Firstly, visit the FBR Online Verification Portal, or IRIS 2.0.
Then, scroll the page to Online Verifications, and select the option ‘Active Taxpayer List (Income Tax)’.
Step 2: Provide Relevant Details
Then, provide the relevant information. Select your parameter
- If you are an individual, enter your 13-digit CNIC (no dashes)
- If you are a business, enter your NTN (National Tax Number).
After selecting the parameter, the right registration number. In the Date field, choose any date to view your ATL status for that specific day, and fill out the captcha.
Step 3: Verify and View Results
Click on the ‘Verify’, and the page will instantly show whether you are an Active Filer or Inactive.
For your information: This is the most reliable way for FBR filer status check.
How to Check Filer Status via SMS?
It is the simplest way to check active taxpayer status by SMS. Here are the straightforward steps to check.
- For Individuals Across Pakistan
Type ‘ATL {Space} 13 digits Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC)’, and send it to 9966.
- For Companies or AOPs
Type ‘ATL {Space} 7 digits National Tax Number (NTN)’, and send it to 9966.
Check AJK (Azad Jammu and Kashmir) Active Taxpayer Status
Individuals who belong to AJK can check their filer status as
- For Individuals
Type ‘AJKATL {Space} CNIC number’, and send it to 9966.
- For a Person with NTN
Type ‘AJKATL {Space} 11 digits NTN number’, and send it to 9966.
Steps to Download the Active Taxpayer List
Follow these simple steps to download the Active Taxpayer List.
Firstly, visit FBR Online Verification or IRIS 2.0.
Then, scroll down the page and select the ‘Active Taxpayer Lists—Downloads’ on the left tab.
Enter a CAPTCHA code to verify you are a human.
Click on the ‘Download’ button, and download the list.
For your information: The downloaded list will be in .xlsx (Excel sheet) format.
Why Your Name May Not Appear on ATL?
Even if you have filed your return, you might not show up in the ATL. Here are the reasons.
Late Submission: You filed your return after the deadline.
Incorrect Filing: If your return is incomplete or submitted incorrectly.
Technical Errors: FBR`s system may take time to update your status.
Payment Issues: Any pending tax payments may cause your name to be excluded.
How to Become a Filer (If You`re not Already)?
Here are some simple steps to become a filer if your current status is a non-filer.
Step 1: Register with FBR
Firstly, register on the IRIS system or the FBR Verification Portal.
Step 2: Submit Your Income Tax Return
Then, submit your income tax return for the relevant year.
Step 3: Pay Application Tax Dues
Pay your application tax dues online and ensure the submission.
Step 4: Wait for ATL Update
After making payments, wait for the ATL date. It is usually updated every Sunday.
Read More: How to become a filer
Key Benefits of Maintaining ATL Status
Being on the Active Taxpayer List offers several benefits, including substantially lower withholding taxes. Filers pay less on property and vehicle purchases than non-filers.
Usually, people get their tax refunds quicker and find it easier to secure loans and credit from financial institutions.
Conclusion
It’s time to sum up the details. Now you know how to check filer status and why it is so important. Whether you use the FBR website or the quick SMS method, checking your filer status online is a smart step toward financial responsibility.
Therefore, it is advisable to avoid higher taxes and build your credibility by making sure your name is always on the Active Taxpayer List.
