How to Handle Advance Tax Notice Under Section 147 Without Stress?

Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Advance Tax Notice can be daunting for taxpayers in Pakistan. And that is exactly why if you own business and self-employ or employed on salary bases even the thought of handling an advance tax notice Pakistan obligation can feel enough to keep you up at night. But you can think of it as successfully managing your Advance Tax FBR and not being penalized for missing the mark. You can stay updated on this blog for how you and all others who are in receipt of an Advance Tax notice might respond easily and fully according to the Advance Tax Under Section 147. 

 

Understanding the Advance Tax Notice 

A resident taxpayer must receive an Advance Tax Notice which is e-issued through Iris by the FBR according to his estimate income tax at a minimum of 75% or more in case total income liability reach Rs. Advances Tax under Section 147: Under this section of Advances tax, the taxpayer which includes Individual/HUF, AOP and Company should pay their taxes through the year in form of 4 quarters other than paying at once at the end of the year. This mechanism, which is in place to assure consistent revenue collection by the government (in respect of persons having taxable income above PKR 1 million or an identified business turnover). The notice contains the total amount owed as well as payment dates and other conditions. 

Ignoring an Advance Tax Notice Pakistan may lead to fines, interest or even legal trouble; hence action is required. To the extent you engage with the notice and have an orderly response to things, you can regularize your duties. 

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Handling an Advance Tax Notice 

Here’s how you can handle an Advance Tax Notice without losing your cool: 

Review the Notice Thoroughly 

The first step is to read the Advance Tax Notice Online that you receive on the Iris portal or in post/email. Check the following details: 

Amount Payable: Check your advance tax claim. 

Deadlines Start, by making a note of the payment schedule (usually September 25, December 25, March 25 and June 15 for companies; September 15, December 15, March 15 and June 15 for individuals). 

Year of assessment: Make sure the notice corresponds with your most recent assessed income or turnover. 

Match the amounts and check them against your own account records to assure every figure is correct. Errors in the notice can disagree and spotting those early on will save you from drifting into overpayment or squabbling. 

Determine Your Liability 

Under the section 147 Advance Tax Under Section 147 FBR computes your advance tax on the basis of your previous year’s / assessed tax or turnover. For individuals, the formula is: 

Advance Tax = (Tax Assessed for Latest Year / 4) – Tax Paid in the Quarter. For companies or AOPs, it’s: 

Advance Tax = ((A x B) ÷ C) – D where: 

A = Turnover for the quarter 

B = Assessed value for the latest year available for which a tax has been assessed. 

C = Turnover most recent tax year 

D = Membership premium payment in the quarter (for which a credit is allowable under Section 168). 

If you expect to have lower income in the current year than in the previous year, you can submit a revision of your estimated income via Iris. This can also change your Advance Tax FBR Liability (if you had selected advance tax) to a number more realistic. 

Check for Exemptions 

Advanced Tax is not applicable to all taxpayers. You may be exempt if: 

Latest declared annual taxable income is below PKR 1 million. 

You are a salaried person with TDS under section 149. 

Your income is subject to final tax schedule (such as dividends, importers & rent). 

If you are eligible for the exemption, send them their notice and supporting documents like income statement or salary slip as your proof of being exempt. This can be submitted through the Iris portal to avoid any penalties. 

Pay Taxes in Time with FBR Advance Tax Challan 

To avoid the notice, pay the advance tax within due dates. 1: FBR Advance Tax Challan Here is how you can make FBR Advance Tax Payment and Download it using IRIS portal (e.fbr. gov.pk) by following these steps: 

Log in to your Iris account. 

Go to the “e-Payments” tab and click on “Create Payment.” 

Select “Income Tax” and create a Payment Slip ID (PSID). 

Payment can be made through online banking, ATM or a bank counter. 

Remember to preserve the proof of payment, which includes the paid challan for future use. Paying on time can also save you having to pay a penalty interest of as much as 0.1 percent a day, or a default surcharge of 12 percent a year, on amounts due but unpaid. 

File a Revised Estimate if Necessary: 

If your income has fallen sharply from the prior year, then submit a revised estimate of final income before the last instalment is due (June 15). Submit financial documentation, including your Profit & Loss Statements with the application to support why you feel the change should be made. This will lower your advance-tax liability in the other quarters 

 

Avoid Common Mistakes 

Avoid these mistakes to avoid stress, penalties and fouls: 

  • Disregarding the Notice: Failure to comply may lead to legal action or financial penalties. 
  • Payment Without Confirmation: Always make sure, the amount is demanded from you before making payment. 
  • Failure to Pay on Time: If you miss your payment deadlines, penalties and interest await. 
  • Advance Tax is Assume Final: The advance tax adjustment with the final not in filing return in each year. 

 

Seek Professional Help 

It can be difficult to navigate the regulations laid out by Advance Tax Notice Pakistan especially for those who have more than one income channel. Are you getting confused on how do I calculate my advance tax for FBR? You better consult with a tax consultant or chartered accountant so that the calculation should be accurate and according to the law of Advance Tax FBR. They can help with filing appeals if you disagree with how much the FBR calculated and revised your tax after accepting an estimate. 

 

Stay Stress-Free with CBM Consultants 

CBM Consultants can help you comply with FBR’s Section 147 Notice by running a calculation around advance tax, comparing the numbers to estimations made by the FBR, making payments in full at the correct time and defending your stance if a dispute arises. We also offer strategic tax planning, maintaining proper documentation and managing instalment schedules, all of which can help your avoid penalties, mitigate risks and concentrate on your business while ensuring your compliance with the Income Tax Ordinance. 

 

Conclusion 

Receiving an Advance Tax Notice doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be disheartened. Interpret the notice, confirm your tax liability, and look for exclusions. Paying through FBR Advance Tax Challan at due dates you can stay tax compliant without a tension. In cases of doubt, professional tax advisors can provide clarity and support. Remain proactive, maintain proper records and manage Advance Tax Notice. For detailed tax details, please visit the official website of FBR or consult with a tax professional. 

Section 147 Notice Explained: Why You Received One and What to Do Next

Getting a tax notice can seem terrifying, especially when it’s a Section 147 Notice from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). If you are a taxpayer in Pakistan, you may have heard this in reference to the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. The notices are part of advance tax collection mechanism of S148 FBR that aim at collection of taxes for the government round-the-year. In this blog, we will explain what a 147 Notice FBR is, why you would be receiving one, give you a 147 Section notices example and what the best next steps are for carrying out 147 Section income tax compliance. Let’s break it down, and demystify it, step by step. 

 

What Are Section 147 Notices? 

Advance tax in quarterly instalments (a) Under section 147 of the Ordinance, every taxpayer, falling in the category read with his age as prescribed in column of the Table below, in respect of his income chargeable to tax for the tax year 2011, would be required to pay his advance tax in the tax year 2011, if such income exceeds the limits specified in column against such category. This provision is meant to ensure that the tax load is spread uniformly, and no hefty taxes amount are collected during the year end/ year beginning by the FBR which otherwise leads to the unstable stream of revenue for the FBR. In short, it’s not a penalty but a pro-active collection device for those who have reasonably foreseeable or high tax liability. 

It might seek payment of past-due instalments, ask for an estimate of your tax liability, or tell you that you’re due a revised assessment based on your previously filed returns. Generally, these notices are dispatched through the FBR’s IRIS portal or by way of email and it may result in penalties, surcharges or even coercive recovery actions for non-compliance while neglecting the same.  

 

Why Did You Receive a Section 147 Notice? 

Section 147 Notices are sent by FBR according to your tax status and history. Here are the common reasons: 

  • High Tax Liability from Previous Year: If you owed more than PKR 1,000,000 (or similar limit for companies) in taxes in your last assessed year, you have to pay advance tax. The IRS used last year’s data to estimate it and inform you if you need to pay. 
  • Failure to Pay Quarterly: Quarterly payments of advance tax are due on September 25, December 25, March 25, and June 15. Missing deadlines triggers a notice. 
  • Income Changes or Underestimation: If your business income has increased, or if you have added income sources (i.e. rentals for salaried individuals) the FBR may reopen and serve a notice for the shortfall. 
  • No Prior Payments or Adjustments: You have paid advance if you have paid shrinking tax (TDS) but if it is not sufficient to pay off your advance liability then you get a notice. The focus is particularly on companies and partnerships. 

There are exemptions under Section 147 FBR such as low-income (less than PKR 1,000,000 annual income), those who fall under the Final Tax Regime (FTR), for example the dividend earners, or salaried individuals with full TDS don’t have to pay advance tax. If that applies to you, the notice might be wrong. 

 

Step-by-Step Guide for Respondence: 

Well, fear not, a Section 147 Notice can be overcome if you act swiftly. Here’s how to respond: 

Review the Notice Thoroughly: Visit IRIS Portal to download details. Record the amount requested, the deadline for a response and the justification. Verify against your records. 

Assess Your Liability: Calculate your advance tax with this formula: Estimate taxable income × applicable rate ÷ 4 (per quarter), minus earlier payments such as TDS. You can use tools on the FBR website or a tax calculator. 

Pay If You Agree: Pay the amount via FBR portal, ATMs or banks before the last date. This prevents additional charges (0,1% per day). 

Dispute or Revise If Needed: If the estimate is wrong (for example, the year’s income was lower than expected), submit a revised estimate and include proof (for example, bank statements or profits/loss accounts). Write to Commissioner Inland Revenue under S. 147 FBR for adjustment. 

Claim Exemptions or Adjustments: Do you have exemption (file income certificate). They can be used to offset later ones if you paid too much in earlier quarters. 

Get professional help: If things are very complicated such as hearings opt for a chartered accountant or a tax consultant. It prevents issues becoming escalated to audits or civil recovery. 

Maintain Records: Keep your filings up to date to avoid future Section 147 Notices. 

By taking these simple steps, you can address the problem quickly while at the same time remaining compliant with the Income Tax Ordinance! 

 

Exemptions Under Section 147 FBR 

You may be exempt from advance tax if: 

  • Your annual income is below PKR 1,000,000 
  • You fall under specific exempt categories in the Income Tax Ordinance 
  • You’ve already paid sufficient tax through withholding or other means 

 

Common Mistakes While Handling a Section-147 Notice: 

  • Failure to Notice: Other taxpayers withhold payment until there’s a late penalty and a default surcharge.
  • Misunderstanding Tax Calculation: Not cross-checking advanced tax estimated with the actual income or turnover may lead to over or under payment.
  • Missing Payment Deadline: Penalty can also be imposed or recovery can be made where advance tax is not collected. 
  • Non-use of IRIS for Response: FBR presumes that notice is accepted and treats accordingly.
  • Assuming Exemption without Confirmation: If lower income or existing tax credits are thought to be an exemption, then it makes one non-complaint and chain of legality issues.
  • Not Seeking Advice From a Tax Adviser: Complex computations and disputes are best left to the experts so errors are not made that would limit opportunities for further legal relief.
  • Overlooking Documentation: If you don’t keep good records of your income estimates or exemption claims, you can have a hard time fighting the FBR.

 

Stay Active with CBM Consultants 

CBM Consultants with independent processes to identify assists you to be compliant of a Section 147 Notice from FBR. This is done by correct amount of advance tax and reconciliation of FBR’s estimate. As well as, payment of on-time advance tax and representation in case of disputes. We also perform strategic tax planning, maintain records, and handle instalments so you can avoid any penalties, mitigate risks and concentrate on your business while abiding by the income tax ordinance. 

 

Conclusion 

The Section 147 Notice is their way to ensure that the tax due is just, in accordance with 147 Section income tax law. It can be intimidating, but reading through the provisions of Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 is what gives you strength. Be proactive with quarterly estimates, utilize exemptions, and get advice when in doubt. If you’ve received one in the last few weeks, act now to minimize the penalties and keep your tax matters in order.  

How Do Companies File GST and Tax Returns in Pakistan?

File GST and Tax Returns

Below is a brief overview of what corporate tax law compliance looks like in Pakistan. Filing GST returns and tax returns on time and correctly is one such responsibility. The FBR-mandated system is designed to keep businesses in the net, so they do not fall into the non-filers’ category while they also keep the revenue cycle running which otherwise could have gone on a penalty spree. This blog outlines everything you need to know about GST tax return And Tax Return Filing Will be discussing the GST tax in Pakistan, What is GST and tax return filing process in Pakistan. 

 

Understanding GST Tax in Pakistan 

GST tax in Pakistan, often referred to as Sales Tax, is a value-added tax levied on the supply of goods and services. There’s a standard rate of 17%, with a few adjustments here and there depending on items or sectors. It’s federally collected through the FBR and businesses that have a turnover beyond a certain threshold are required to register for it. This tax goes toward public services and infrastructure, so it is important for companies to know that and follow the law. 

For companies, GST is charged on business-to-business domestic sales (including imports) and collected at every stage of the supply chain. Input tax credits enable businesses to offset taxes they pay on purchases against those collected on sales, which lessens the overall burden. 

 

What is GST Return? 

What is GST return? In simple words, a GST return is a statement which a person registered under the FBR is required to file with the tax authorities. It contains the details of sales, purchases, output tax (i.e. tax collected from the buyer) and input tax for a certain period. This is equivalent of sales tax return in Pakistan because here GST basically sales tax structure. For most businesses, a report is filed once each month, detailing taxable activities that have occurred so that there are transparency and accuracy in the collection of taxes. 

If you don’t file these returns, you can be fined, forced to pay interest, or worse, face legal action, so knowing what GST return means your first step is toward becoming a complaint taxpayer. 

 

GST Return Filing in Pakistan: Step-by-Step Guide 

GST return filing in Pakistan has been simplified by digitalizing it, which is now an easier way for the firms to comply. It’s a complete online procedure using FBR’s IRIS portal. So, here’s how businesses can manage GST return filing in Pakistan: 

Registration: Prior to filing, be aware that your business should have an STRN. If not, go to the FBR website and sign up, answering questions about your business and supplying your NTN (National Tax Number) and supporting documents, such as bank certificates and a utility bill. 

Compile Documentation: You will require sale and purchase invoices, input/output tax report and any adjustments for the time period. 

Login to IRIS: Login to FBR e-portal with your username and password. Go to the “Sales Tax Return” area. 

Fill the Form: Follow the annex C (summary of sales and purchases) by 10th of the next month. Then complete the main return form with information on taxable supplies, exemptions and tax calculations. 

Make Payment: Net tax due should be paid by the 15th through Internet Banking or using online payment facility. 

File the Return: File the full return by the 18th. A confirmation will be produced by the system. 

This monthly cycle applies to most companies, though some may qualify for quarterly filing based on turnover. 

Sales Tax Return Filing Procedure in Pakistan 

The sales tax return filing procedure in Pakistan follows a standard timeline to ensure smooth operations. Under the Sales Tax Act, 1990, and recent updates in the Finance Act 2025, companies must adhere to these deadlines to avoid penalties. 

  • Annex C Submission: (By the 10th): This should contain information on invoices/credit/debit notes. 
  • Tax Due Date: Pay the tax by the 15th through bank pay over the counter or online. 
  • Whole return filing: By the 18th, submit the comprehensive return electronically. 

Additional annexes such as Annex-H1 (for stock statements) may be required for traders or specific sectors which can be prepared in excel tools for better reliability. The process also promotes electronic filing to cut down errors and delay in processing. 

 

How to File GST and Tax Returns Online? 

Companies use the digital ecosystem of FBR to file their GST and tax returns. First, visit the FBR website and sign in to IRIS. It allows you to file both sales tax (GST), as well as income tax returns. 

For income tax, companies do this annually by the 31st of December (they file for the fiscal year ending on June 30). This consists in profit and loss accounts, withholding taxes and any advance revenues paid. 

Tips for smooth online filing: 

  • Use secure internet and keep backups of documents. 
  • Check the calculations to take input credits with certainty. 
  • Stay updated on amendments, like those in the 2025 Finance Act, which may affect rates or procedures. 

 

GST Filing with CBM Consultants Expertise  

How tax and accounting firms are helping business owners to File GST and Tax Returns in Pakistan? They help in registration on FBR as well as correct preparation and hassle-free submission through IRIS portal. They analysis is supportive from compliance of Sales Tax return filing process in Pakistan to minimizing errors in GST Return Filing in Pakistan to providing effective tax planning advice. By outsourcing, firms can reduce time, prevent penalties and concentrate on growth while professionals take care of GST tax in Pakistan in all sense of GST tax terms.  

 

File Sales Tax Return: Common Challenges and Solutions 

Each business in Pakistan needs to periodically File Sales Tax Return to fulfil up the requirements of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Although there is an easy way to file your return through online modes like the iris portal. But, businesses in Pakistan face several issues which may result in errors, penalties, and delays. Knowing these challenges helps businesses File GST and Tax Returns online seamlessly, with full confidence.  

Typical Sales Tax Return Filing Issues 

  • Errors in Tax Calculations: Common issues include incorrect input and output tax calculations.

Tip: Hire tax consultant agencies for accurate GST with-holding. 

  • Lack of Documentation: Businesses sometimes fail to keep invoices, tax challans, or purchase records.

Solution: Maintain organized file records for return filing and audit. 

  • Missing Deadlines: Late returns can lead to penalties, surcharges, or account suspension.

Key Solution: Request reminders or hire professional companies for filing. 

  • Technical Issues with Online Filing: File returns ahead of deadline to avoid last-minute problems. Refer to FBR helpline or tax consultant for further assistance.

 

Conclusion  

It is important for the companies from Pakistani to know how to file GST and tax returns in Pakistan. Also, by following the sales tax return filing steps in Pakistan and using online facilities, companies can easily do that. Remember, timely filing is not just an issue of penalties, it keeps a healthy cycle going in the financial ecosystem. So If you are businessmen then visit FBR portal today and check your registration status.