A National Tax Number (NTN) is a unique identification number issued by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to individuals and businesses in Pakistan for tax purposes. It is required for income tax filing, business registration, and many types of financial transactions. This guide explains what an NTN is, how to verify it, and what to do if you face issues during the process.
What is an NTN?
An NTN is a 7-digit number issued to individuals, companies, and associations for tax purposes. For salaried individuals and sole proprietors, their CNIC acts as the NTN. For businesses like companies and AOPs, a separate NTN is issued. Having an NTN is a legal requirement for taxpayers in Pakistan and is essential for financial transparency.
Ways to Check Your NTN Online
NTN Verification Through IRIS Portal
Go to the official IRIS portal
Find the section labeled ‘Online Verifications’
Choose ‘Taxpayer Profile Inquiry’
Select the parameter type as CNIC or Registration Number
Enter the CNIC number without dashes
Fill in the captcha code and click submit
Your NTN, name, and other details will appear if you’re registered
Using the Tax Asaan App
Install the Tax Asaan app from your app store
Open the app and register with your CNIC or mobile number
Navigate to ‘NTN Inquiry’ or ‘Taxpayer Verification’
Enter your CNIC
The app will show your NTN and related tax profile
Check NTN Status by SMS
Open the SMS app on your phone
Type ATL followed by a space and your CNIC number (without dashes)
Send the message to 9966
You’ll receive an instant reply showing whether your CNIC is in the Active Taxpayer List and your NTN status
Benefits of Having an NTN
Legal compliance with FBR
Required for opening business bank accounts
Essential for filing income tax returns
Needed for registration in government contracts or tenders
Helps in acquiring visas for certain countries (as a sign of tax compliance)
Allows businesses to collect sales tax and issue tax invoices
Gives credibility to your business for investors and clients
Common Problems in NTN Verification
Entered CNIC with dashes or incorrect format
FBR system down or overloaded
Mobile number not registered with the FBR
Your NTN is not yet active or not issued
Your profile is incomplete in the IRIS system
Solution: Always ensure that your CNIC is updated in the IRIS portal, use the correct format, and try accessing during non-peak hours. If problems persist, visit your nearest FBR facilitation center or call the FBR helpline.
Why NTN Verification Matters
It confirms your registration with the FBR
It ensures you are a part of the formal economy
It helps you avoid penalties for non-compliance
It builds trust with banks, clients, and government agencies
It is now linked to several financial and legal processes in Pakistan
Conclusion
NTN inquiry in Pakistan has become simple and accessible. Whether you’re a salaried person, a freelancer, a shop owner, or a business entity, knowing your NTN and keeping it active is crucial for tax compliance and financial legitimacy. You can verify your NTN through the FBR portal, mobile app, or by SMS. Always keep your information updated and check your NTN status regularly to ensure you stay in good standing with FBR.
