National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan on Friday hinted at a possible extension of the deadline for submission of online income tax returns, as a significant number of registered taxpayers are yet to file digitally.

The chairman said the NBR would monitor progress based on submission trends.

"When we see that a large percentage of registered taxpayers have submitted their returns, we will know that most of the work is done. At this stage, we estimate around 1.5 million taxpayers are still expected to file online," he said.

He added, "If necessary, the government may consider an extension after discussions with the finance adviser."

Rahman made the remarks while addressing the inauguration of an income tax return submission support booth at the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU), where a request to extend the return deadline was raised. The DRU has initiated the booth to assist its members in preparing and submitting income tax returns.

"To ensure transparency, we have introduced a digital platform that allows taxpayers to submit returns in a hassle-free manner," he said, adding that audits would be conducted automatically using data generated through the digital system.

A limited number of returns are still being accepted manually, but these will gradually be converted into digital records, he noted, adding that the system is continuously updated based on taxpayer feedback.

Rahman also confirmed that preparations are underway to introduce digital VAT return submission, expected next year, along with a dedicated app to simplify filing.

The NBR is also integrating data from Central Depository Bangladesh Limited (CDBL) and banks to automatically update information on capital market investments and interest income in tax returns.

"These investment and income details will be visible only to the respective taxpayers, with no unauthorised access allowed," he assured.

According to the NBR chairman, around 4.2 million taxpayers have registered for online return submission, with more than 2.6 million already filed.

"This means approximately 1.5 to 1.6 million returns are still pending. Receiving all of them within the next week may be difficult, especially as new registrations continue daily. On average, more than 15,000 taxpayers register each day," he said.

Earlier, towards the end of November, the NBR had extended the deadline for individual taxpayers by one month, allowing returns for the 2025–26 tax year to be filed until 31 December instead of 30 November.

Currently, taxpayers can submit online returns without uploading any documents. Upon paying income tax through banking channels or mobile financial services, they receive an automated e-return acknowledgement instantly.

From the next fiscal year, savings-related information will be obtained directly from banks through the system, eliminating the need for taxpayers to collect certificates for dividends, interest income, or savings instruments. Rahman also emphasised that NBR officials would not have access to individual taxpayers’ personal financial data.

The event was attended by DRU President Abu Saleh Akon, General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel, and Finance Secretary Niaz Mahmud Sohel.