Before you file: a practical tax return checklist

1. Start with access and the right tax year

Preparing an income tax return is easier when the information is organised before you begin. Start by confirming which tax year you are preparing and whether you can access your own Iris account. Keep your email address and mobile number current so that account recovery does not become a last-minute obstacle.

FBR identifies Iris as its online income tax filing portal. First-time filers need registration before filing; people who already have an NTN or registration number but lack login credentials can use the e-enrolment route for registered persons.

Reference: FBR — Logging into Iris (opens a new tab)

2. Collect the records behind your income

As a preparation checklist, gather the documents that explain your income and any tax already deducted. Include each source you actually have rather than treating this list as a statement that every item applies to you. Keep a note of missing certificates and ask for them early.

• Your annual salary certificate and employer tax deduction details, if employed.
• Bank statements, profit certificates and withholding tax certificates, where relevant.
• Freelance invoices, payment records and business expense receipts, if applicable.
• Records of rental income, investments or asset sales that need review.
• Your previous filed return and wealth statement, if available.

3. Review your assets, liabilities and spending

Prepare a separate schedule of your bank balances, property, investments and outstanding loans at the relevant year-end. Note significant purchases, disposals and changes since the previous year, with supporting documents. This helps your adviser identify gaps before figures are entered into the return.

FBR's filing guidance describes completing the return and wealth statement and reconciling the movement in wealth with income and expenses. Confirm the forms and declarations that apply to your circumstances. If a difference appears, trace the underlying records rather than inventing an adjustment to make the figures balance.

Reference: FBR — Completing Income Tax Return (opens a new tab)

4. Review, submit and keep a filing copy

Before submission, review personal details, the tax year, income figures and deduction certificates together. Ask your adviser to explain any assumptions, missing information and the resulting tax calculation. A saved draft is still a draft: FBR says successful submission is confirmed when the relevant return and wealth statement move to Completed Task in Iris.

Save your submitted documents and acknowledgement in a dated folder. For a first return, multiple income sources or overseas circumstances, ask for a review of the filing scope before you start. You can then approach the process with a complete checklist and a clear understanding of the next step.

Reference: FBR — Completing Income Tax Return (opens a new tab)