FBR Ban SIM Cards for Non-Filers: How to Check Taxpayer List?

The Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) is closely following the news of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) ban on SIM cards linked to around 500,000 non-tax filers.

PTCL makes sure to follow the law and keep consumers safe. They’re working together with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to solve problems well.

Meanwhile, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) ban SIM cards of over 500,000 non-filers to combat tax evasion. The FBR issued an Income Tax General Order (ITGO) under the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, with names of non-filers made public.

These SIMs will remain blocked until restored by the FBR or relevant authorities, promoting tax compliance. Non-filers can restore their SIMs by filing tax returns for 2023, as per FBR’s directive.

Telecom operators are required to provide a compliance report by May 15. Last year, the FBR gained additional powers to increase the tax net, including the authority to disconnect utilities and block mobile SIMs for non-filers.

On Tuesday, the FBR released the news about rules. Income Tax General Order No 01 of 2024, to make sure people who should file tax returns for 2023 do so. Check the taxpayers list if you are not on the list and haven’t filed your taxes. You can check if your name is on the list of 506,671 individuals on the FBR website.

How to check the Active Taxpayer List (Income Tax)?

To check the Active Taxpayer List for income tax, you can follow these steps:

1. Visit the official website of the tax authority the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) website.
2. Look for the section or tab related to tax services or taxpayer verification.
3. Find the option to check the Active Taxpayer List (ATL) or Taxpayer Directory.
4. Enter the required information, which includes your CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) number or Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN).
5. Submit the information and wait for the system to retrieve the results.
6. Review the results to see if your name appears on the Active Taxpayer List.

If you encounter any difficulties or require assistance, you can contact the tax authority’s helpline or visit their office for support.

How to check Active Taxpayer status by SMS?

To check an active taxpayer status by SMS, you can follow these steps:

1. Type “ATL (space) CNIC number” (e.g., ATL 1234567890123).
2. Send the SMS to the designated number provided by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The FBR’s designated number for ATL verification via SMS is 9966.
3. Wait for a response. You should receive a reply SMS indicating the active taxpayer status. If you are an active taxpayer, your status will be confirmed, and if not, the SMS will indicate your non-active taxpayer status.
4. Review the response to determine the taxpayer’s status.

Please note that standard SMS charges may apply, and ensure that you’re sending the SMS to the correct number.

Non Taxpayer List (Income Tax):

The FBR released an Income Tax General Order (ITGO) by the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, which publicly identifies individuals who are non-tax filers and announces the FBR ban on SIM cards.

Check the Income Tax Non-Taxpayer Status List.