Facing an FBR Section 138 Notice?

A Notice under Section 138 of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 is a legal document issued by the FBR to a taxpayer demanding payment of outstanding tax dues. It’s essentially a warning before initiating legal action for recovery.

Why is it issued?

The FBR can issue a Notice under Section 138 in various situations, such as:

• Unpaid taxes: If you haven’t paid your assessed income tax liability for a specific tax year.
• Deficiency assessment: If the FBR believes your declared income is lower than your actual income and demands additional tax.
• Penalty or fine: If you’ve incurred penalties or fines for late filing, non-compliance, or other tax-related offenses.

What does the notice contain?

The notice will typically include the following details:

• Your name and tax identification number (NTN)
• The tax year and amount of outstanding tax dues
• The reason for the notice (e.g., unpaid tax, deficiency assessment)
• Interest and penalty charges (if applicable)
• Deadline for payment (usually 30 days)
• Consequences of non-compliance (e.g., legal action, seizure of assets)

What should you do?

Upon receiving a Notice under Section 138, it’s important to act quickly and take the following steps:

• Review the notice carefully: Understand the reason for the notice and the amount demanded.
• Gather relevant documents: Collect your income tax returns, bank statements, and any other documents supporting your income and tax payments.
• Verify the amount: Check if the calculations are correct and contact the FBR if you find any errors.
• Consider your options: You can choose to pay the full amount by the deadline, request an installment plan, or file an appeal against the notice.
• Seek professional advice: Consulting a tax lawyer or accountant is recommended for complex cases or if you need help navigating the legal aspects.

Important points to remember:

• Ignoring the notice can lead to serious consequences, including legal action, asset seizure, and travel bans.
• Early action and communication are crucial to resolve the issue quickly and avoid further penalties.
• Seeking professional advice can help you understand your rights and options, ensuring a fair and efficient resolution.