ATL Status Check Pakistan: How to Check If You Are a Filer

What is the Active Taxpayers List?

The Active Taxpayers List (ATL) is the list FBR publishes of persons who have filed their income tax return. Banks, brokers, registrars, car dealers, utility companies and property authorities check it before deducting withholding tax. If you are on the ATL you are treated as a filer and pay the lower rate. If not, you are a non-filer and pay a higher rate on almost every withholding section. See our withholding tax rates by section for the difference.

How to check your ATL status

1. Open the official FBR website (fbr.gov.pk) and look for the Active Taxpayers List or online status check service.
2. Enter your CNIC (individuals) or NTN (companies and AOPs), typed as digits only, without dashes.
3. Read the status shown for the tax year. Some checking tools such as the Tax Asaan app and an SMS service also exist; use only FBR's official channels.

FBR has changed its portals and services over time, so if a link has moved, use the search on fbr.gov.pk.

What the status means

• Active: you are on the ATL and get filer rates.
• Inactive or not listed: you are treated as a non-filer.
• Late filer: some sources describe a separate status for people who filed after the deadline; the rules for this can include a surcharge, so check current FBR guidance.

How to get on the ATL

File your income tax return for the tax year. Once the return is filed and processed you appear on the ATL. If you do not have an NTN yet, follow our guide on how to become a tax filer. The current deadline is covered there too.

Why it matters

Examples of what changes between filer and non-filer: bank profit is withheld at double the rate, property purchase tax can be 10.5% to 18.5% instead of 1.25%, vehicle advance tax is triple, and cash withdrawals of more than Rs 50,000 a day attract 0.8% tax for non-filers. Try the cash withdrawal tax calculator and the bank profit tax calculator.

Common problems with an ATL status check

• You filed but do not appear: processing can take some time, so check again after a few days and keep your filing receipt.
• The CNIC is not found: enter the 13 digits without dashes and confirm your registration with FBR.
• Different status on different dates: the list can change as returns are filed.

If you need a status certificate, use your IRIS account. For help with registration see how to become a tax filer. After you are active, use the withholding tax rates table to see how much less you pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ATL in Pakistan?

ATL is the Active Taxpayers List published by FBR. Persons on it are filers and pay lower withholding tax rates.

How can I check if I am a filer?

Use FBR's official ATL check on fbr.gov.pk with your CNIC or NTN, or FBR's official apps and services.

How do I get on the ATL?

File your annual income tax return. After it is processed you appear on the list.

Do I need an NTN to be on the ATL?

Yes. Your CNIC is your NTN for individuals once you are registered with FBR.

What happens if I am not on the ATL?

You pay higher withholding tax on banking, property, vehicles, dividends and other transactions.