Taxpayers must notify by Jan 15 if unable to file e-return

Taxpayers struggling with online income tax returns have until Jan 15 to request permission for alternate filing from their tax offices.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) issued an order on Monday setting the deadline for applications from taxpayers unable to submit e-returns.

Earlier, the online filing requirement for individual taxpayers had been partially relaxed, allowing those unable to submit returns electronically to seek permission for alternative submission.

The NBR had initially set a deadline for such applications and, following several extensions, has now moved it to mid-January.

The previous day, Sunday, the authority had extended the second phase of the income tax return submission period for individual taxpayers by one month, until Jan 31.

Although online filing is mandatory this financial year for regular individual taxpayers, the requirement does not apply to senior citizens aged 65 or above, taxpayers who are physically unable or have special needs, Bangladeshis residing abroad, or legal representatives submitting on behalf of dead taxpayers.

Legal representatives may submit returns online if they wish, but there is no obligation. Expatriates can also file their returns online if they choose.