The Active Taxpayer List (ATL) is one of the most important concepts in the Pakistan tax system. Being on the ATL saves you significant money on property purchases, bank profits, dividends, and contracts. Here is everything you need to know.
What Is the Active Taxpayer List?
The ATL is a list of taxpayers who have filed their income tax returns for the relevant tax year. The FBR publishes the list periodically. If your name is on it, you qualify for lower withholding tax rates. If your name is not on it, you pay higher rates as a non-filer.
How to Check Your ATL Status
The easiest way is to SMS your CNIC number (without dashes) to 9966. You will receive an instant reply from the FBR. You can also check online at iris.fbr.gov.pk by logging into your account and checking your profile status.
How to Get on the ATL
The only way to get on the Active Taxpayer List is to file your income tax return. Even if your income is below the taxable threshold of PKR 600,000, filing a nil return gets you on the list. The process takes a few days from submission to appearing on the ATL.
What You Save by Being on the ATL
- Property: 3% instead of 10% withholding tax
- Bank Profit: 20% instead of 40% withholding tax
- Dividends: 15% instead of 30% withholding tax
- Contracts: 3% instead of 7.5% withholding tax
How Long Does ATL Status Last?
Your ATL status is valid until the next list is published. You need to file your return every year to stay on the list. Missing a year drops you off, and you go back to non-filer rates.
Common ATL Myths
Myth: I do not earn enough to file a return. Fact: There is no minimum income requirement for filing. You can file a nil return.
Myth: Filing late means I cannot get on the ATL. Fact: You can file a belated return and still get on the list, though it may take longer.
Myth: Once I am on the ATL, I stay there forever. Fact: You must file every year to maintain your status.
Ready to become a filer? We can file your return and get you on the ATL quickly.