How to activate NTN

To reactivate your National Tax Number (NTN) in Pakistan and restore your status on the Active Taxpayers List (ATL), follow these steps:

1. Check Current Status:
   • Verify if your NTN is inactive by sending an SMS: Type “ATL (space) [13-digit CNIC number without dashes]” and send to 9966 (e.g., ATL 3520212345678). You’ll receive a response indicating your status.
   • Alternatively, check online via the FBR IRIS portal iris.fbr.gov.pk under “Taxpayer Profile Inquiry” using your CNIC.
2. Identify Reason for Inactivity:
   • Common reasons for an inactive NTN include failure to file income tax returns, non-payment of taxes, or non-compliance with FBR requirements. The SMS or IRIS portal may indicate the specific issue.
3. File Pending Tax Returns:
   • Log in to the FBR IRIS portal:
     • If you don’t have an account, register using your CNIC and a valid mobile number.
     • If already registered, log in with your credentials.
   • Navigate to the “e-Filing” section and check for any pending income tax returns for previous years.
   • File all overdue returns. Even if you have no taxable income, submit a “Nil” return to comply with requirements.
   • Ensure you file the return for the latest tax year (e.g., Tax Year 2024 for returns due in 2025).
4. Pay Outstanding Taxes or Penalties:
   • Check for any unpaid taxes, surcharges, or penalties in the IRIS portal under “Payments” or “Taxpayer Profile.”
   • Generate a Payment Slip Reference (PSID) through the IRIS portal or FBR’s e-Payment system.
   • Pay the dues via online banking, mobile apps, or at a bank counter (e.g., National Bank of Pakistan or other designated banks).
   • Retain payment receipts for reference.
5. Update Taxpayer Profile:
   • Ensure your profile details (e.g., contact information, address) are updated in the IRIS portal under “Taxpayer Profile.”
   • If your NTN is linked to a business, verify that the business registration details are current.
6. Verify ATL Status:
   • After filing returns and clearing dues, your NTN should automatically be reactivated on the ATL, typically within a few days.
   • Check your status again via SMS (send ATL [CNIC] to 9966) or on the FBR website under “Active Taxpayers List” fbr.gov.pk/active-taxpayers-list.
   • ATL updates are usually published weekly by the FBR.
7. Contact FBR for Assistance:
   • If your NTN remains inactive after compliance, contact the FBR helpline at 051-111-772-772 or visit your Regional Tax Office (RTO).
   • You can also email helpline@fbr.gov.pk (mailto:helpline@fbr.gov.pk) with your CNIC, NTN, and details of the issue.
   • Be prepared to provide proof of filed returns and payment receipts.

Additional Notes:

• For salaried individuals, ensure your employer has updated your details in their tax filings, as this may affect your ATL status.
• If you’re a non-resident, you may need to coordinate with a local representative or tax consultant to resolve issues, as SMS verification requires a Pakistani number.
• Regularly file annual returns by the deadline (typically September 30 for individuals) to maintain active status.
• If your NTN is suspended due to legal or compliance issues, you may need to resolve these through the FBR’s grievance redressal mechanism or consult a tax professional.

By addressing pending returns and payments, your NTN should be reactivated promptly. If issues persist, direct interaction with the FBR is recommended.