(Kiran News) – Filing Income Tax Return (ITR) is a responsibility for every Indian citizen, whether the income is from salary, business, property sales, shares, or interest-dividends. For many, filing ITR online has become easier, but first-time filers may still feel some anxiety. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to file your ITR, download its copy, and avoid common mistakes.
Last Date to File ITR
CA Santosh Mishra explains that the last date to file ITR for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) without penalty is 15 September 2025. If you file your ITR by this date, you do not need to pay any late fees.
Penalty for Late Filing
If, for any reason, you file ITR after 15 September but before 31 December 2025, you will have to pay a penalty. This penalty ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the delay and your taxable income. Delays can become expensive.
Step-by-Step Process to File ITR Online
1. Login to the Website
First, visit the official Income Tax Department website (incometax.gov.in). If you are already registered, enter your user ID and password to log in.
2. Registration for New Users
If you are filing for the first time, you must register by providing your PAN, Aadhaar number, and some other details, similar to opening a new bank account.
3. Choose the Menu
After logging in, go to the ‘e-File’ menu. Click on ‘Income Tax Returns’ and then select ‘File Income Tax Return’ to begin.
4. Select Assessment Year (AY) and Mode
You will be asked to select the assessment year. For FY 2024-25, choose AY 2025-26. Then select your preferred mode for filing.
5. Status and ITR Form
On the next page, you must specify your status: Individual, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), or other. After selecting your status, click ‘Continue’. Then, select the correct ITR form (like ITR-1, ITR-2, etc.) as per your income sources and choose between the old or new tax regime.
6. Review and Edit Details
Your pre-filled personal information (like name, address, etc.) will appear. Check it carefully. If any correction or update is needed, edit accordingly. If all is correct, click ‘Proceed’.
7. Tax Calculation and Payment
The system will now calculate your income and tax liability. After the calculation, you will see two options: ‘Pay Now’ or ‘Pay Later’. If you have taxes due, you can pay immediately or later. You can also see if you are eligible for any refund.
8. Final Preview
After making the payment (if required), click ‘Preview Return’. Review the draft carefully to ensure everything is correct. Then click ‘Proceed to Validation’.
9. Success Message and Verification
You will see a success message once your ITR is filed. The ITR Verification Form (ITR-V) will be ready to download. Make sure to download it and complete e-verification within 30 days.
Mistakes to Avoid
CA Ajay Bagadia warns about the following common errors:
PAN and Aadhaar Linking: Ensure your PAN and Aadhaar are linked. Without this, you cannot file your return.
Validate Bank Account: Validate the bank account where you want to receive your refund. This can be done on the website.
Correct ITR Form: Choose the correct ITR form as per your income sources; the wrong form may result in rejection.
Deadline and E-Verification: File ITR and complete e-verification (confirmation of ITR-V) within 30 days. Without verification, your return will be considered incomplete.
Respond to Notices: If the Income Tax Department sends any notice or query, respond within the given deadline. Ignoring them can cause problems.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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