Filing ‘zero’ tax returns is a criminal offence, NBR warns amid social media scam

It urges taxpayers to ignore fraudulent advice online to avoid imprisonment and fines

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has warned taxpayers that filing so-called “zero returns” is illegal and punishable by up to five years in prison under the Income Tax Act 2023.

The warning follows misleading social media posts claiming tax returns can be submitted by entering “zero” in all fields.

In a statement, the NBR said some taxpayers, misled by such posts, have been falsely declaring zero income, expenditure, assets and liabilities.

Officials stressed there is no provision in law for a “zero return” and that taxpayers must accurately declare their actual financial details, even if their income is below the taxable threshold.

The NBR urged taxpayers to be wary of fraudulent advice online and protect themselves from the risk of imprisonment and fines by fulfilling their "legal and moral duty".