How to File ITR in India Before the Deadline:
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Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) in India isn’t just a yearly ritual—it’s your financial responsibility as a citizen. With the ITR filing season for Assessment Year 2025–26 well underway, many taxpayers are now racing against time to complete the process before the due date. But here’s the catch: waiting until the last minute can cost you—literally. Delayed ITR filing may invite penalties, interest on tax dues, and even loss of certain benefits.
In this article, we provide a step-by-step, jargon-free guide to filing your ITR well before the deadline, what documents you need, which ITR form to choose, and the benefits of filing early.
Why Filing ITR Early is Important
- Avoid Penalties:
Filing after the due date (usually July 31st for individuals) attracts a late fee of up to ₹5,000 under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act. - Quick Refunds:
Early filers often receive their refunds faster since processing takes less time during the early phase. - Time for Corrections:
If you file early and spot an error, you have enough time to revise your return before the final deadline. - Better Loan Processing:
ITR serves as a valid income proof when applying for loans, visas, or credit cards. Filing early ensures your documents are ready when needed.
Who Should File ITR in India
You are required to file an ITR if:
- Your total annual income exceeds the basic exemption limit (₹2.5 lakh for individuals below 60).
- You have foreign assets or income.
- You want to claim a refund.
- You’re carrying forward losses under any head of income.
- You earned income through capital gains, freelancing, or property.
- You’re a company or firm, irrespective of profit/loss.
Documents Required for ITR Filing
Before you log in to the Income Tax Portal, keep the following documents ready:
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Form 16 (issued by your employer)
- Form 26AS (tax credit statement from TRACES portal)
- Annual Information Statement (AIS)
- Interest certificates from bank/Post Office
- TDS Certificates, if applicable
- Investment proofs (ELSS, LIC, PPF, etc. for claiming deductions under 80C)
- Home loan interest certificate, if applicable
- Capital gains details, if you sold shares or property
- Bank account details
How to File ITR Online – Step-by-Step Process
The Income Tax Department provides an e-filing platform for easy ITR submission. Here’s how to file your return online:
Step 1: Visit the Official ITR Portal
Go to: https://www.incometax.gov.in
Step 2: Log In
Use your PAN number (User ID) and password to log in. If you’re a new user, register using your PAN, Aadhaar, and contact details.
Step 3: Choose ‘e-File’ > ‘Income Tax Return’
Select the appropriate Assessment Year (2025–26) and mode of filing as ‘Online’.
Step 4: Select the ITR Form
Choose your ITR form based on your income type:
- ITR-1 (Sahaj): For salaried individuals earning up to ₹50 lakh with one house property and no capital gains.
- ITR-2: For individuals/HUFs not having business income.
- ITR-3: For individuals with business/professional income.
- ITR-4 (Sugam): For individuals/HUFs with presumptive income under Sections 44AD, 44ADA, or 44AE.
Step 5: Fill in the ITR Form
Verify that your personal, income, and tax details are auto-populated. Cross-check Form 16, Form 26AS, and AIS to ensure accuracy.
Step 6: Claim Deductions and Tax Reliefs
Add deductions under Section 80C, 80D, 80G, etc. If you’ve paid excess tax, you may be eligible for a refund.
Step 7: Validate and Preview
Double-check all information. Use the “Preview” option to ensure the form is error-free.
Step 8: Submit the Return and e-Verify
Once satisfied, submit the ITR and choose your preferred e-verification mode—Aadhaar OTP, bank account, or demat account. Verification is mandatory to complete the filing process.
Which ITR Form Should You Use? – Quick Breakdown
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
- Late fee up to ₹5,000 under Section 234F.
- Ineligibility to carry forward losses.
- Delayed refund, if any.
- Interest under Sections 234A, 234B, and 234C.
Pro Tips to File ITR Early and Smoothly
- Link PAN with Aadhaar: It’s mandatory before filing.
- Update Bank Details: For seamless refund transfer.
- Use Pre-Filled Data: Available on portal to save time.
- Save Acknowledgment: Download and keep the ITR-V for your records.
- Consult a CA: If you have multiple income sources or capital gains.
Key ITR Filing Dates for AY 2025-26
- Start of Filing: April 1, 2025
- Due Date for Individuals (Non-audit cases): July 31, 2025
- Due Date for Businesses (Audit cases): October 31, 2025
- Last date to revise return: December 31, 2025
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Quoting wrong Assessment Year
- Mismatching TDS amounts in Form 26AS
- Failing to disclose income from interest or capital gains
- Forgetting to e-verify the return
- Ignoring foreign assets, if any
Filing your Income Tax Return is more than just a financial obligation—it’s a smart move that reflects your financial discipline. With digital tools and a simplified e-filing portal, it’s easier than ever to file your ITR well before the deadline. Don’t wait until the last moment. Save yourself the stress and possible penalties by filing early.
So, gather your documents, verify your details, and log in to the ITR portal today. Timely filing is not only good for your wallet but also for your peace of mind.
