The Income Tax Ordinance 2001 specifies that business expenses paid through non-banking channels are not allowed. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule, such as utility bills, freight charges, travel fares, postage, and taxes/statutory obligations. Tax is calculated based on the taxable income of the business owner, and certain criteria must be met for an expense to be allowed as a deduction.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) disallows expenses that do not meet the criteria, resulting in higher taxable income. Deductions that are not allowed against business income include expenses on which tax was deductible or collectible but not deducted or collected by a third party, commission paid on Third Schedule items, entertainment expenses exceeding prescribed limits, contributions made to unrecognized provident, pension or gratuity funds, and amounts that are capitalized.
Moreover, contributions to provident or other approved funds are not allowed if tax is not deducted on salary income, and fines or penalties paid for violating regulations are also not allowed. Personal expenses, amounts exceeding 50% of contributions to an approved provident, pension or gratuity fund, and sale promotion or advertisement expenses exceeding 10% of revenue for pharmaceuticals are also not allowed.
It is essential to keep in mind that any amount that exceeds Rs. 250,000 for a single head is not allowed if it is not paid through a banking channel, unless a single payment of up to Rs. 25,000 is made. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the rules and regulations set by the FBR to avoid any issues with business expenses and deductions.
In conclusion, it is imperative for business owners to familiarize themselves with the criteria for business expenses and deductions outlined in the Income Tax Ordinance 2001. By doing so, they can ensure that their expenses are allowed as deductions and avoid disallowed expenses, leading to higher taxable income.
