Filing your tax return in Pakistan used to feel like a headache — long queues, confusing forms, and no guidance. But thankfully, things have changed.
Now you can submit your tax return online through the FBR IRIS portal without leaving your home. All you need is your CNIC, mobile number, and a bit of patience.
This blog will walk you through the entire process in plain, easy-to-understand language. Even if you’re filing for the first time — don’t worry, I’ve got you.
1. First Step: Create Your FBR IRIS Account
If you’re filing tax returns for the first time, you must create an account on the IRIS portal.
How to register (in simple words):
- Go to iris.fbr.gov.pk
- Click “Registration for Unregistered Person”
- Enter your CNIC, email, and mobile number
- You’ll receive two verification codes — one on SMS, one on email
- Enter the codes and complete your registration
Once verified, you’ll receive your IRIS username and password.
Tip: Make sure your SIM is registered under your own CNIC.
2. Login to Your IRIS Account
After registration, log in:
- Enter CNIC (without dashes)
- Enter password
- Click Login
You’ll land on your personal dashboard where all your tax filing activity will appear.
3. Update Your Profile Before Filing
Most people skip this — and then IRIS shows errors later.
Go to Registration → 181 (Form) and update:
- Address
- Phone number
- Bank accounts
- Employer NTN (if salaried)
- Business details (if non-salaried)
Click Submit after reviewing everything.
This ensures your return goes through smoothly.
4. Select the Relevant Tax Year
FBR follows the July–June cycle.
Example:
- Tax Year 2025 = Income from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024
Go to:
Declarations → Income Tax Return (Select Year)
5. Fill in Your Income Details
Your income type decides which section you need to fill.
If you are a Salaried Person
You will enter:
- Salary income
- Tax already deducted by employer (mentioned on your salary slip)
- Allowances and benefits
If you run a Business
You will enter:
- Turnover
- Profit & loss
- Business expenses
- Taxes withheld under different sections
If you own Property
Enter:
- Rental income
- Tax deducted by tenant
- Any other related details
Reminder: Keep documents like salary slips, bank statements, and withholding certificates nearby.
6. Claim Tax Credits (If Applicable)
Many people don’t know about tax credits — and they end up paying more tax than required.
You may claim credits for:
- Life insurance premiums
- Investments (shares, mutual funds)
- Donations to approved organizations
- Pension contributions
These reduce your total tax liability.
7. Submit Your Wealth Statement (Mandatory)
To stay an Active Taxpayer, you must submit a Wealth Statement (Form 116).
You will provide:
- Your assets
- Liabilities
- Household expenses
- Year-to-year changes
Don’t overthink it — just be accurate and consistent.
8. Pay Tax If You Have Any Balance Payable
If IRIS shows additional tax payable:
- Go to Payment → Generate PSID
- Choose Income Tax
- Create your PSID
- Pay it through:
- Online banking
- ATM
- Mobile app (Meezan, HBL, UBL, JazzCash, Easypaisa etc.)
- Bank counter
The payment updates automatically after a few minutes.
9. Final Step: Submit Your Return
Once everything looks good:
- Click Submit
- Download your Acknowledgment Receipt
Congratulations — your return is officially filed!
10. Check Your Name in the Active Taxpayers List (ATL)
After filing and paying any due tax, you will appear in the ATL.
Why is ATL important?
- Lower withholding taxes
- Lower property transfer taxes
- Lower car registration charges
- Reduced bank transaction tax
Check your ATL status anytime at FBR ATL page.