The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has extended the deadline for individual taxpayers to submit their income tax returns by one month. 

According to an NBR order issued on Sunday, taxpayers can now file their income tax returns for the 2025-26 fiscal year until 31 December. Previously, the deadline was 30 November.

The order also allows taxpayers who are unable to file online to apply to the Deputy Commissioner of Taxes by 15 December. Online submission of returns is mandatory for the current fiscal year. 

However, exceptions have been made for individuals aged 65 and above, those physically challenged or with special needs, Bangladeshis residing abroad, legal representatives filing on behalf of deceased taxpayers, and foreign nationals working in Bangladesh. These individuals may also submit returns electronically if they wish.

Taxpayers’ authorised representatives can submit e-returns on their behalf this year. Additionally, although overseas Bangladeshis are not required to file online, they can submit e-returns from abroad using their passport number, national identity card number, and email address.

Failure to submit returns within the stipulated time will result in a late fee of 2 per cent per month under the Income Tax Act. 

Delayed submissions may also affect tax assessment procedures, requiring taxpayers to pay tax on their total income without receiving exemptions or relief. Any fractional month will be considered a full month for calculation purposes.

Currently, online returns can be filed without uploading any documents, and taxpayers receive an automatic e-return acknowledgment immediately after paying tax through any banking channel or mobile financial service.

To assist taxpayers with e-return issues, NBR has established a call centre at 09643717171, providing immediate telephonic support. Help is also available through e-return help desks across all tax zones nationwide.

As of Sunday, over 1.8 million taxpayers have submitted their returns online for the current fiscal year. Last year, NBR extended the submission deadline by one month on 17 November, by which time 375,000 returns had been filed. 

The deadline was later extended in phases, finally set at 15 February for individual taxpayers. Returns can still be submitted after the deadline with applicable penalties.