Tax disputes in Pakistan usually start with audit notices, show-cause letters, and orders from the Commissioner Inland Revenue or sales tax officers. The Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 governs income and withholding tax. The Sales Tax Act, 1990 covers goods and services tax administration at the federal level for registered persons.
Appeals move through appellate tribunals and, on questions of law, to high courts. Customs assessments have their own appellate track. Overseas Pakistanis face residency tests, foreign income reporting, and withholding on Pakistan-source payments.
We separate accounting disagreements from legal character questions so clients do not pay tax they do not owe.
What We Handle
- FBR audit defence, reconciliations, and written replies to show-cause notices
- Income tax appeals before the Commissioner Appeals and tribunals under the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001
- Sales tax and federal excise disputes, including input adjustment denials
- Customs valuation and classification appeals where applicable
- Advance tax and withholding disputes on salaries, dividends, and contracts
- Penalty and default surcharge challenges on procedural and merits grounds
- Overseas Pakistani residency and foreign income reporting issues
- High court references on substantial questions of law after tribunal orders
Our Approach
We read the audit order line by line and tie each addition to evidence the officer must produce. The Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 has specific burden rules and limitation periods we watch closely.
For sales tax under the Sales Tax Act, 1990, we trace invoices, digital returns, and stock records. Weak documentary trails need honest repair before we argue law.
We work with your chartered accountant on numbers but keep legal theory in counsel’s hands for appeals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ignore a tax notice?
No. Silence can lead to ex parte assessment and harder recovery later. Reply within time or seek extension properly.
What is the difference between a departmental appeal and high court?
Tribunals handle facts and law within their statute. High courts mainly correct legal error on stated questions after you exhaust remedies.
How do I reduce withholding disputes with clients?
Clear contracts, correct NRN certificates where relevant, and documented exemption claims help. We review your paperwork.
Do overseas Pakistanis pay tax on remittances?
Not all remittances are taxable income. Facts decide. We review source, residency, and treaties if they apply.
Call us or send a message. First consultation is free.