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| Equal Tax Benefits Promised for Manual Income Tax Filers, Matching Electronic-Filers. |
"In a significant development, manual income tax filers will now enjoy the same tax benefits as electronic filers.
Following an investigation prompted by a public interest complaint by tax lawyer Waheed Shahzad Butt, the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to rectify the discrimination faced by manual filers.
The FTO's order mandates the FBR to ensure that all manual filers for the latest tax year are active in the Active Taxpayer List (ATL), addressing violations of Rule 73 of the Income Tax Rules 2002.
The FBR has been instructed to establish mechanisms and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to prevent such omissions in the future, promoting fair and equitable taxation for all citizens."
"This move toward equalizing tax benefits has been widely applauded, addressing the concerns of the manual filers who felt unjustly treated in comparison to their electronic counterparts.
Waheed Shahzad Butt's efforts in highlighting this issue and the subsequent resolution by the FTO have been pivotal in ensuring a fair taxation system. This decision not only rectifies past injustices but also sets a precedent for ensuring transparency and fairness within the tax filing process.
The FBR's commitment to implementing substantial measures and SOPs signifies a step in the right direction, emphasizing their responsibility to cater to the specific needs of all taxpayer segments.By actively addressing these shortcomings, the FBR is not only safeguarding the interests of individual taxpayers but also contributing to a more just and efficient tax system in the country.
This development is expected to instill confidence in taxpayers, assuring them that their efforts to comply with tax regulations are valued and acknowledged.
It also serves as a reminder of the importance of public advocacy in holding authorities accountable, ensuring that the taxation system remains equitable and accessible to all citizens."
