Understanding the FBR Iris System: A Comprehensive Guide
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in Pakistan has developed an integrated online platform known as Iris. This system streamlines the processes related to income tax and sales tax, providing an efficient and user-friendly interface for taxpayers. Iris is not an acronym; it is named after the flower, symbolizing wisdom. This guide will walk you through the various features and functionalities of the FBR Iris system, helping you navigate it with ease.
What is Iris?
Iris is a comprehensive Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system that covers all business processes related to income tax and sales tax in Pakistan. It is designed to be highly configurable and customizable, allowing users to manage their tax-related tasks efficiently. The system is accessible through the FBR’s official website and supports various browsers, with Google Chrome being the recommended choice for optimal performance.
Accessing Iris
To access the Iris system, users need to visit the FBR’s official portal and log in using their credentials. The user ID for Iris is typically the individual’s 13-digit CNIC/NICOP for Pakistani nationals or a 7-digit NTN for non-Pakistanis and companies. Users can log in from multiple sessions simultaneously, but the system automatically logs out after 15 minutes of inactivity as a security measure.
Key Features of Iris
- User-Friendly Interface: Iris provides a straightforward interface with a horizontal bar menu at the top of the screen, allowing users to navigate through different sections easily.
- Task Management: Users can create and manage various tasks related to tax filing and compliance. The system provides options to attach documents, file returns, and manage client information seamlessly.
- Security Measures: To ensure data security, Iris requires users to complete a two-step registration process. Users receive a password and PIN upon initial registration, which must be used to start any task. The system also provides options to reset forgotten passwords or change existing ones.
Filing Tax Returns with Iris
One of the primary functions of the Iris system is to facilitate the filing of tax returns. Users can file their returns by selecting the “Declaration” option from the menu. The system guides users through the process, allowing them to enter relevant data, select tax periods, and submit their returns electronically. For those managing clients’ returns, the system provides options to enter client details and file returns on their behalf.
E-Enrollment and Registration
For new users, the e-enrollment process is straightforward. Users need to access the Iris login screen, click on the “E-Enrollment” button, and follow the instructions to receive their password and PIN via email and SMS. This process ensures that users are registered and ready to use the system for their tax-related activities.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Session Timeout: Users are automatically logged out after 15 minutes of inactivity. To prevent this, ensure that you save your work regularly and stay active on the platform.
- Hyperlink Issues: If hyperlinks are not working, users can clear their browser cookies by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Del and then retry accessing the links.
- Password and PIN Management: Users can reset their passwords by clicking the “Forgot Password” link on the login screen. A verification code is sent to the registered email and phone number, which must be entered to reset the password. Similarly, users can change their PIN through the “Change PIN” option available after logging in.
Conclusion
The FBR Iris system is a powerful tool for managing tax-related activities in Pakistan. Its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface make it an essential platform for taxpayers. By understanding the functionalities and following the guidelines provided, users can effectively navigate the system and ensure compliance with tax regulations. Whether you are filing your own returns or managing them for clients, Iris provides the necessary tools to streamline the process and enhance efficiency.