What is the Active Taxpayer List (ATL) and why does it matter?

Quick answer

The Active Taxpayer List is the FBR's public list of people and businesses that have filed their latest income-tax return on time. Being on the ATL ('filer' status) means you pay substantially lower withholding-tax rates on banking transactions, vehicle and property purchases, and many other dealings than non-filers. Filing your annual return is what keeps you on it.