FBR reviews KTBA proposals on refunds, returns, deemed assessments

According to Mettis Global, the FBR's Domain Team has passed several policy objections from the Karachi Tax Bar Association to its Policy Wing for review. The objections cover when refund claims are lodged, the issuing of deemed assessment orders and how returns can be amended. The tax body maintained that these concerns already fall under current rules, including the 15-day deemed assessment provision.

The statement emerged from an online consultation between FBR officials and KTBA leaders and members, focused on the return's structure and wider filing experience. The regulator said the return platform works properly and no technical faults were found. Participants offered proposals such as Excel uploads for data entry, a review of the need to supply financial information in next year's return, and a computer-generated PDF setting out residence status rules; FBR noted each one.

Most other questions were answered through live demos showing how to record property investments, add several business capital entries, declare tax under specific sections, and enter inherited property. KTBA president Mehmood Bikiya praised the quick arrangement of the meeting and called the return system dynamic and user-friendly, while vice president Saud ul Hasan welcomed the open dialogue. The FBR said it will keep consulting business bodies, and both parties committed to continuing the partnership.