NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan -File Photo

 
DHAKA, Dec 21, 2025 (BSS) - National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan has hinted at a possible extension of the deadline for submission of online income tax returns as a significant number of registered taxpayers are yet to file their returns digitally.

He said the NBR would assess progress based on submission trends.

“When we see that a large percentage of registered taxpayers have submitted their returns, we will understand that most of the work has been completed. At this stage, we believe around another 15 lakh taxpayers will submit their returns online,” he said.

“If necessary, the government may consider the matter later. We will make a decision after discussing it with the high ups (finance adviser),” he added.

The NBR chairman made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of an income tax return submission support booth at the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU) today where a request was made to extend the return submission deadline.

The DRU has taken a special initiative to assist its members in preparing and submitting their income tax returns.

“To ensure transparency, we have introduced a digital platform that allows taxpayers to submit their returns in a hassle-free manner,” he said, adding that audits would be conducted automatically using data generated through the digital system.

A limited number of returns are still being accepted manually, but these will gradually be converted into digital records, he said, adding that the system is being continuously updated based on taxpayer feedback.

Rahman also said preparations were underway to introduce digital VAT return submission, which is expected to be launched next year. An app will also be introduced to further simplify return filing.

The NBR is working to integrate data from the Central Depository Bangladesh Limited (CDBL) and banks to automatically update information on capital market investments and interest income in tax returns.

“These investment and income details will be visible only to the respective taxpayers, and no unauthorised access will be allowed,” he said.

According to the NBR chairman, around 4.2 million taxpayers have registered for online return submission, while more than 2.6 million have already filed their returns.

“This means around 1.5 to 1.6 million returns are still pending. Receiving all of them within the next week may be difficult, especially as new registrations continue every day. On average, more than 15,000 taxpayers register daily for e-return submission,” he said.

Towards the end of November, the NBR extended the deadline for individual taxpayers to submit income tax returns by one month, allowing returns for the 2025–26 tax year to be filed until 31 December, instead of the original deadline of 30 November.

Currently, taxpayers can submit online returns without uploading any documents. Upon paying income tax through any banking channel or mobile financial service, taxpayers receive an automated e-return acknowledgement instantly.

From the next fiscal year, savings-related information will be obtained directly from banks through the system, he said, explaining that integration with CDBL and banking platforms would eliminate the need for taxpayers to collect certificates for dividends, interest income or savings instruments.

He also said NBR officials would not be able to access individual taxpayers’ personal financial data.

DRU President Abu Saleh Akon, General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel and Finance Secretary Niaz Mahmud Sohel were present at the event.