Why One Should Not Ignore Emails or SMS From Federal Board of Revenue
On Alfaizantax.com we have started a series of articles to guide the general people about taxation system in Pakistan. Its a public service campaign from us. You may also suggest us topics or your tax related problem, we shall try to write a detailed article on it. Today we shall discuss a hot topic i.e Why You Should Never Ignore FBR Emails or SMS? Lets start reading the details;
Why You Should Never Ignore FBR Emails or SMS?
In Pakistan, many people ignore emails and SMS from the FBR. They think it’s not important or maybe fake. Some even delete it without reading. But this habit can be very risky. These messages can carry serious notices. FBR is not just sending them for fun. There is always a reason behind them. If you ignore it, you may face legal trouble, penalties, or even audits. So never take FBR communication lightly.
FBR Messages Are Important
FBR sends messages to remind or warn you. Sometimes it’s about tax return not filed. Sometimes it’s about a mismatch in income. Or maybe about assets you didn’t declare. They also send reminders before deadlines. These messages are not just information. They’re a warning bell too. When you receive one, take action. Do not wait for the next notice.
Penalties Can Be Heavy
Ignoring these messages can cost you money. FBR has power to fine non-filers. Even late-filers have to pay extra. The longer you delay, the bigger the fine. Sometimes, people receive a fine of thousands. And if audit is opened, it can go worse. You may have to pay even more. Small mistake can become a big issue.
You Can Be Blacklisted
FBR can also blacklist your NTN. That means you can’t do many things. You can’t get government tenders. You can’t register your car easily. Even banks may block your business account. Being a filer brings benefits. But being blacklisted takes those all away. Your professional image also gets damaged. People trust you less when you are blacklisted.
FBR Monitors Your CNIC
FBR watches how much you earn and spend. Everything is now linked to your CNIC. Your car, house, credit card—everything. If you buy something big, FBR checks it. If your spending is high, but tax is low, they will send you a notice. This is how they catch tax evaders. You can’t hide behind cash deals now. So be transparent and honest.
Not All Messages Are Fake
It’s true that some people receive scam SMS. But not all are fake. FBR sends messages from official numbers. Their emails end with @fbr.gov.pk. You can always verify them online. Just go to FBR official website. Still in doubt? Ask a tax consultant. But please don’t ignore all messages blindly. Scams exist, but real warnings do too.
You Can Reply and Defend
FBR gives you chance to reply. If you answer properly and timely, problem ends fast. No fine, no audit. But if you stay silent, things get worse. You lose your chance to explain. FBR assumes you’re hiding something. Then they take strict action. So better to talk before things go bad. Reply early, stay safe.
Get Professional Help If Needed
Many people don’t understand tax language. It’s full of technical terms. That’s okay. You don’t need to be an expert. Just hire a tax consultant. They know how to handle FBR matters. They will file reply on your behalf. They save you from fine and mental stress. A small fee saves you from big trouble.
Stay Filer and Stay Safe
Being a filer brings many benefits. Lower tax on car tokens. Easy vehicle transfer. Lower tax on property buying. Your name stays clear in FBR list. So file your tax return every year. Keep your profile updated. Don’t wait for deadline. Don’t wait for notice. Be active always.
Final Thoughts
FBR emails and SMS are not a joke. They should not be ignored at all. Maybe it’s just a reminder. Maybe it’s a serious warning. But you will never know unless you read it. Ignoring it blindly can damage your peace and pocket. So take them seriously. Open them. Understand them. And reply if needed. Better to act early than regret later. Tax is a responsibility, not a punishment. Here is a link of another useful article for you by Ahsan Karim Advocate High Court.
How to Handle FBR Tax Audit in Pakistan?
I H.Dr Ahsan Karim is an advocate high court and old Ravian. I did my LLB from Punjab University Lahore in 2002. I am working as webmaster and social media manager too in Al-Faizan Tax Consultant. I have written more than 7000 articles on various topics.