Steps to Check if You Are on the FBR Sim Block List for Non-Filers

Just earlier, we informed you that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is now blocking the mobile phone SIMs of over 5 million individuals (5,000 individuals daily) who have failed to file Income Tax Returns for the Tax Year 2023. And telecom service providers have agreed to assist in the process. Now, many of you must be looking for the FBR sim block list for non-filers right? Here is how you can check if your name is on the FBR non-filer sim block list or not.

Check Your Name on the FBR Non-Filer SIM Block List

To verify if your SIM is at risk of being blocked or  is your name on the sib block list for the non-filers, follow these steps:

1. Go to the FBR SIM Block List
2. Use the Ctrl+F command
3. Enter your CNIC number or full name to search the list

Enforcement and Compliance

According to the FBR, there are over 5 lakhs individuals who are eligible to file income tax returns but are not on the Active Taxpayer List. So, there is a directive from FBR, issued through an Income Tax General Order (ITGO) under section 114B of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. In order to ensure fast implementation, FBR has directed Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) together with cellular operators in the country to immediately enforce this order and start blocking 5000 sims on a daily basis.

Controversy and PTA’s Opposition

The measure being pursued by the FBR was resisted by the PTA and telecommunication companies in Pakistan. PTA raised issues of practicality and fairness as regards blocking of SIM cards. For instance, many women use mobile SIMs registered under men’s names. So, blocking these could disproportionately affect women. In addition, the current system has no restrictions on the issuance of new sims to non-filers. It can undermine the effectiveness of the process.

You may also like to read: How to Become a Filer in Pakistan

Conclusion

The FBR’s directive to block SIMs of non-filers is an important step in ensuring tax compliance. The opposition of the PTA earlier represented challenges to implement such measures. But now, the telecommunication companies have agreed to assist in these measures. So, go through this FBR non-filer sim block list and file tax returns and become active tax payer to avoid blockage of the mobile network. 

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