Banks to Remain Open for Extended Hours on Saturday to Facilitate Tax Payments
In a move aimed at easing the process of government revenue collection, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced extended working hours for commercial banks on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The decision has been taken to facilitate taxpayers who wish to make over-the-counter (OTC) payments of government duties and taxes before the deadline.
According to the SBP directive, branches of all commercial banks across the country, including National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) branches that handle customs-related collections, will remain open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the specified Saturday. The extended hours are intended to provide additional convenience to individuals and businesses seeking to fulfill their tax obligations without disruption.
The central bank further advised commercial banks to ensure that their concerned branches remain operational for as long as required to facilitate the Special Clearing for Government transactions conducted by the National Institutional Facilitation Technologies (NIFT). This step is crucial to ensure that all government-related payments made during the extended hours are processed smoothly and without delay.
Officials familiar with the matter stated that the decision was made at the request of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). With end-of-month deadlines often placing pressure on taxpayers and banking channels, the extended banking hours are expected to help reduce congestion, long queues, and last-minute complications at bank counters.
The SBP’s announcement reflects a broader effort to improve coordination between financial institutions and revenue authorities, particularly during peak periods for tax collection. By keeping banks open on a weekend, the authorities aim to provide taxpayers with additional flexibility, especially those who are unable to visit bank branches during regular weekday working hours.
This measure is also expected to support smoother government cash flow management by ensuring timely receipt of duties and taxes. For businesses involved in imports, exports, and other regulated activities, the availability of NBP branches handling customs collection on Saturday is likely to be particularly beneficial.
Bank customers planning to make OTC payments are advised to visit their respective branches early and ensure they carry all required documentation to avoid delays. While digital payment channels continue to grow, OTC banking remains a critical option for many taxpayers across the country.
The extended hours initiative highlights the SBP’s role in facilitating economic activity and supporting the government’s revenue objectives. As tax compliance deadlines approach, such measures are often welcomed by both taxpayers and banking institutions, helping to ensure a more efficient and orderly process.
With January 31 marking an important date for government transactions, the decision to keep banks open for extended hours is expected to provide timely relief and improved access for taxpayers nationwide.
