Islamabad Tax & Accounting Services

How to Become a Filer in Pakistan: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

NTN & Filer · 10 August 2026 · 4 min read

'Filer' and 'non-filer' decide how much tax you pay on everyday transactions. A filer buying a PKR 10 million plot pays 3% advance tax; a non-filer pays 10.5%. The difference can run into hundreds of thousands of rupees. Here is how to switch sides.

Step 1: Get an NTN

Register on FBR's IRIS portal with your CNIC, a mobile number in your own name and an email address. Individuals are usually issued an NTN within 24 hours. We do this for you the same day.

Step 2: File your income tax return

Even if your income is zero or below the threshold, you must file a return and wealth statement for the relevant tax year. The return declares income, taxes already paid and your assets.

Step 3: Appear on the Active Taxpayer List

After filing, your name appears on the ATL, which updates every Monday. If you file after the deadline, a late surcharge (PKR 1,000 for individuals, PKR 10,000 for AOPs and PKR 20,000 for companies) must be paid before you are added.

Step 4: Stay a filer every year

Filer status is annual. Miss one year and you drop off the list. We send reminders and file for you before every deadline.

Check your status

Send 'ATL (space) CNIC number' to 9966 or check the ATL on FBR's website. Our team can verify your status and fix any issues in minutes.

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