E-Return Filings Near 100,000 in First 10 Days of Tax Season

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Nearly one lakh (96,945) taxpayers have filed their income tax returns online within the first 10 days of the 2025–26 e-return system, according to the National Board of Revenue (NBR).

The e-return submission process began on 4 August 2025, marking the first filing season under the NBR’s expanded online tax system. The number of submissions in this short period is almost five times higher than the 20,523 returns filed during the first 10 days of last year’s tax season, which started on 9 September 2024.

On 3 August, the NBR made online filing mandatory for all individual taxpayers across the country, with specific exemptions. These include senior citizens aged 65 or above, persons with physical disabilities or special needs, Bangladeshis living abroad, and legal representatives of deceased taxpayers. An amendment on 11 August further exempted foreign nationals working in Bangladesh from the e-return requirement.

Taxpayers encountering registration or technical issues can apply to file paper returns, subject to prior approval from the relevant tax office, up until 31 October 2025.

The NBR has emphasised that the new system offers greater convenience, allowing tax payments through bank transfers, debit or credit cards, and mobile financial services such as bKash, Rocket, and Nagad. After completing the process, filers can instantly download and print their e-return acknowledgement slips and income tax certificates.

To assist taxpayers, the NBR has set up a dedicated call centre (09643 71 71 71) and an online complaint submission system through its official e-tax portal (www.etaxnbr.gov.bd).

The revenue authority has urged all eligible taxpayers to submit their returns within the stipulated time and ensure accurate declarations of income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Officials have reiterated that timely and transparent tax reporting strengthens the country’s fiscal foundation, improves compliance, and contributes to national development.

Tax experts say the surge in early submissions reflects growing public acceptance of the online system, aided by the earlier launch date this year and broader awareness campaigns. However, they stress that continued technical support and user education will be essential to maintain the momentum and ensure smooth filing experiences for all taxpayers.