FTO resolves 90pc of complaints, promises swift justice

KARACHI: The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) office reported handling over 8,000 complaints during the previous fiscal year, successfully resolving 90 per cent of these issues and implementing the corresponding decisions, FTO Dr Asif Mahmood Jah announced on Friday during his visit to the SITE Association of Industry.

Dr Jah assured that complaints from taxpayers would be addressed promptly, with a commitment to delivering justice within four to six weeks. The FTO office has the mandate to address issues related to maladministration and malpractice by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and it ensures that decisions are implemented effectively, he noted.

The FTO also mentioned that any retaliation from the FBR for lodging complaints with the FTO is monitored by the FTO office, which has already issued a notification to prevent such backlash against taxpayers.

Dr Jah updated the members on the FTO office’s progress, noting that, thanks to its efforts, refunds totalling Rs17.8 billion have been disbursed to taxpayers by the FBR. He also reported that the FTO has taken proactive measures concerning SRO-350 issues and is actively addressing delays in customs duty payments on goods held at ports. He also announced the appointment of an adviser from the SITE Association of Industry.

Previously, President of SITE Muhammad Kamran Arbi highlighted a pervasive distrust between taxpayers and tax authorities. He noted that taxpayers are often hesitant to approach tax authorities, even with legitimate concerns due to past mishandling by these authorities. He also pointed out that SMEs struggle with the cost of hiring high-paid staff for tax return and compliance matters.