The extension in the last date for filing of income tax return forms reflects weak enforcement and administration of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Tax experts told Business Recorder here on Monday that FBR had extended the last date for filing of income tax returns for individuals and Association of Persons (AOPs) from August 31 to September 30, 2012.
The FBR had aggressively launched a campaign that September 30 was the last date of filing of returns and no extension would be granted in this regard. However, it announced the second extension with the new deadline now given as October 10, 2012.
The FBR tried to create an impression that strong enforcement drive would be launched against those who had failed to file their returns by the extended deadline of September 30. It was also reported that the computerised national identity card numbers (CNICs) of non-filers would be blocked, which incidentally has no legal backing in the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 and other fiscal laws. Another extension on September 30, even before the end of working hours, clearly reflects that the Board has continued its tradition of extending last date for filing of returns. Keeping in view past track of the FBR, a number of taxpayers did not take the first deadline seriously.
Registered persons who had filed returns by September 30 by paying their tax liabilities regretted that the FBR has again extended the last date and maintained that there was no benefit in submission of returns on time. Many argued that the FBR must give those who submit on time some form of benefit so that they do not feel cheated and this would also lead to more late filers being lured into filing on time.