Over 14 lakh tax returns filed online: NBR

More than 14 lakh income tax returns have been filed online, reflecting strong voluntary participation from taxpayers, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) said in a statement on Sunday.

The number of registrations for online tax filing has also surpassed 18 lakh. Despite this surge, the NBR has not extended the deadline beyond 16 February, having already granted three extensions. However, the online return submission facility will remain available throughout the year.

The total number of tax returns filed so far stands at approximately 37 to 38 lakh, according to the NBR. Taxpayers who fail to meet the deadline face penalties, including a 10% late fee, a monthly 2% interest on payable tax and the loss of tax rebates and exemptions.

To assist taxpayers, 869 tax circle offices across 41 income tax zones will continue providing services until 31 December. These include online Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) registration, return filing, and e-payment through automated challans.

NBR officials said this year’s focus is on expanding online tax return submissions, making the process more user-friendly. After filing online, taxpayers can easily download acknowledgement slips, tax certificates, TIN certificates and copies of submitted returns.

As per government directives, online tax return filing is mandatory for government employees in Dhaka, Gazipur and Narayanganj City Corporations, as well as for employees of all scheduled banks, telecom companies and large corporations.

Bangladesh currently has 1.05 crore TIN holders. The NBR thanked taxpayers, including nearly one million who have already filed online, and encouraged others to take advantage of the digital system before the 31 January 2025 deadline, which was later extended to 16 February for individuals and 16 March for companies.