Understanding Extension of Time for Furnishing Returns -

Understanding Extension of Time for Furnishing Returns

Are you aware of the provisions regarding Understanding the Extension of Time for Furnishing Returns under Section 119 of the tax laws? In this post, we’ll delve into the details of Section 119 and shed light on how individuals can apply for an extension, the grounds for such extensions, and the implications of seeking additional time.

Section 119 of the tax laws allows individuals to apply for an extension of time to furnish various documents, including tax returns and wealth statements. This provision recognizes that there may be circumstances beyond an individual’s control that prevent them from meeting the original deadline.

According to Section 119(2), individuals must submit their application for an extension by the due date for furnishing the returns or wealth statements. This ensures that the tax authorities are aware of the request in a timely manner.

Section 119(3) outlines the grounds on which an extension may be granted. These include:

  • Absence from Pakistan
  • Sickness or other misadventure
  • Any other reasonable cause

The Commissioner of Inland Revenue (CIR) has the authority to grant an extension if satisfied that the applicant meets one of these criteria.

While the usual extension period should not exceed 15 days from the due date, exceptional circumstances may justify a longer extension, as stated in Section 119(4). However, if the CIR does not grant an extension, the Chief Commissioner may do so upon application, again with a limit of 15 days unless exceptional circumstances warrant otherwise.

It’s essential to understand that while an extension may be granted for furnishing returns and documents, it does not alter the due date for the payment of tax, as per Section 119(6). Individuals will still be liable to pay any default surcharges if applicable.

In conclusion, Section 119 provides a mechanism for individuals to seek an extension of time for submitting their tax-related documents under specific circumstances. By understanding these provisions, taxpayers can ensure compliance with the law while managing unforeseen challenges.

For more insights into tax laws and financial regulations, stay tuned to our blog!

Certainly! Here’s the same information presented in a table format:

AspectDetails
What is Section 119 about?Section 119 allows individuals to apply for an extension of time to furnish various documents, including tax returns and wealth statements.
How to Apply for an ExtensionApplication must be made by the due date for furnishing the returns or wealth statements.
Grounds for Extension– Absence from Pakistan
– Sickness or other misadventure
– Any other reasonable cause
Duration of ExtensionStandard extension period is up to 15 days from the due date, unless exceptional circumstances justify a longer extension.
Important NoteAn extension does not change the due date for tax payment; default surcharges may still apply.

This table format provides a concise and organized overview of the key aspects of Section 119 and its implications for taxpayers seeking extensions.



Sure, here are some practice examples along with their answers for each scenario outlined in Section 119:

Scenario 1: Absence from Pakistan

Practice Example:
Ali, a taxpayer, had to travel abroad for urgent business meetings during the tax filing period. He was unable to submit his tax return on time due to his absence from Pakistan. Can Ali apply for an extension under Section 119?

Answer:
Yes, Ali can apply for an extension under Section 119 due to his absence from Pakistan. He should submit his application for an extension along with necessary supporting documents to the Commissioner of Inland Revenue (CIR) before the due date for furnishing the tax return.

Scenario 2: Sickness or Other Misadventure

Practice Example:
Sara, a taxpayer, fell seriously ill a few days before the tax filing deadline and was hospitalized. As a result, she couldn’t prepare and submit her tax return on time. Can Sara request an extension under Section 119?

Answer:
Yes, Sara is eligible to request an extension under Section 119 due to her sickness, which prevented her from fulfilling her tax obligations. She should submit her application for an extension along with relevant medical documents to the Commissioner of Inland Revenue (CIR) before the due date for filing the tax return.

Scenario 3: Any Other Reasonable Cause

Practice Example:
Ahmed, a taxpayer, experienced a technical malfunction in his computer system, which resulted in the loss of important tax-related data. Consequently, he was unable to complete and submit his tax return on time. Can Ahmed seek an extension under Section 119?

Answer:
Yes, Ahmed can apply for an extension under Section 119 due to the technical malfunction of his computer system, which qualifies as a reasonable cause for seeking an extension. He should submit his application along with evidence of the technical issue to the Commissioner of Inland Revenue (CIR) before the due date for furnishing the tax return.

These practice examples illustrate different scenarios where taxpayers may qualify for an extension under Section 119 of the tax laws and how they can apply for such extensions.


Understanding Extension of Time for Furnishing

Q1: What is Section 119 of the tax laws about?

A1: Section 119 allows individuals to apply for an extension of time to furnish various documents, including tax returns and wealth statements, recognizing circumstances beyond their control that may hinder meeting the original deadline.

Q2: How can I apply for an extension under Section 119?

A2: You must submit your application for an extension by the due date for furnishing the returns or wealth statements, ensuring that the tax authorities are notified in a timely manner.

Q3: What are the grounds for extension under Section 119?

A3: Grounds for extension include absence from Pakistan, sickness or other misadventure, and any other reasonable cause, as outlined in Section 119(3) of the tax laws.

Q4: How long can an extension last under Section 119?

A4: Typically, the extension period should not exceed 15 days from the due date. However, longer extensions may be granted under exceptional circumstances, as stated in Section 119(4).

Q5: Can the Chief Commissioner grant an extension if the Commissioner of Inland Revenue (CIR) does not?

A5: Yes, the Chief Commissioner may grant an extension upon application, with a limit of 15 days, unless exceptional circumstances warrant otherwise.

Q6: Does an extension under Section 119 change the due date for tax payment?

A6: No, an extension for furnishing documents does not alter the tax payment due date. Taxpayers are still liable to pay any default surcharges if applicable, as per Section 119(6).

Q7: How can I ensure compliance with tax laws while managing unforeseen challenges?

A7: By understanding the provisions of Section 119, taxpayers can proactively apply for extensions under specific circumstances, ensuring compliance with the law even in challenging situations.


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