Record number taxpayers embrace NBR’s online income tax return system
Business Report :
In a remarkable demonstration of growing digital adoption, more than 16 lakh taxpayers in Bangladesh have already filed their income tax returns online this year.
Simultaneously, over 20 lakh individuals have completed their registration for e-return filing with the National Board of Revenue (NBR), signaling a strong shift toward digital compliance in the country’s tax ecosystem.
According to an official press release issued by the NBR on Wednesday, the surge in online return filings reflects the increasing confidence of taxpayers in the digital tax services provided by the authority. The response has been described as “overwhelming,” underscoring the trust and convenience that online services have brought to the traditionally paperwork-heavy income tax process.
In recent years, the NBR has made concerted efforts to modernize and digitize its service delivery in alignment with the government’s “Digital Bangladesh” vision. Based on consistent feedback, suggestions, and demands from taxpayers, the income tax return submission process has undergone a series of improvements.
These enhancements have gradually simplified the system, making it more user-friendly, accessible, and efficient. As a result, the number of individuals opting to file their tax returns electronically has witnessed a substantial increase.
Importantly, the NBR has decided to keep the online income tax return portal operational even after the formal observance of Income Tax Day. This extended accessibility ensures that those who could not submit their returns within the primary deadline still have the opportunity to comply, minimizing undue pressure on taxpayers and encouraging broader participation.
Another important feature of the online system is the ease of correcting mistakes. If a taxpayer identifies any errors in their originally submitted return, they can file a revised return from the comfort of their home. Under Section 180(2) of the Income Tax Act-2023, a taxpayer has up to 180 days from the date of the original submission to file such corrections electronically. So far, 7,225 taxpayers have availed themselves of this facility, highlighting the system’s flexibility and adaptability to real-world needs.
The NBR has extended its appreciation to all taxpayers who have chosen the online method for return submission and encourages continued use of digital services, including the generation of income tax certificates. These certificates, often required for bank loans, visa applications, and business licenses, can now also be obtained electronically, making the entire process more convenient and transparent.
The growth in online tax filings is not merely a technological shift-it represents a cultural change in Bangladesh’s approach to taxation. For years, filing income tax returns was considered cumbersome and intimidating, often involving long queues at tax offices, complicated paperwork, and frequent need for third-party assistance.