How Non-Filers Can Reactivate Blocked SIMs by Filing Their Returns?
Mobile SIMs blocked by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) will be restored by the relevant Commissioner of Inland Revenue who has jurisdiction over non-filers of income tax returns.
For non-filers who have filed their returns after their SIMs were blocked, there are two methods to restore the blocked SIMs. The simplest method is to inform the FBR through its helpline that the tax return has been filed. After verification, the blocked SIM will be restored within 48 hours. Alternatively, the person can approach the concerned Commissioner of Inland Revenue at the Regional Tax Office with jurisdiction over the non-filer.
Non-filers should visit the relevant tax office where they are registered and inform the officials about the filing of their return to restore their mobile phone SIM.
According to the FBR, the blocked SIMs of the individuals in question will remain inactive until restored by the FBR or the Commissioner of Inland Revenue with jurisdiction over the individual.
Under section 114B of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001, the Board or the Commissioner with jurisdiction over the person mentioned in the income tax general order may order the restoration of mobile phones, mobile phone SIMs, and connections of electricity and gas, if they are satisfied that (a) the return has been filed, or (b) the person was not liable to file a return under the provisions of the Ordinance.
