by E-filing of Income Tax Returns (ITR) on the Income Tax Portal is a streamlined and efficient process designed to make compliance with tax obligations straightforward for taxpayers in India. With the advent of digital infrastructure, the Income Tax Department has made it easier for individuals and entities to file their returns online, reducing the need for physical paperwork and speeding up the processing time.
Step 1: Registration or Login
- For First-time Users:
If you’re a first-time user, you will need to register on the Income Tax e-Filing portal. Registration requires your PAN (Permanent Account Number), which acts as your user ID.
- For Existing Users:
If you have already registered, simply log in using your PAN and password.
Step 2: Download the Appropriate ITR Utility
The Income Tax Department provides an option to fill in your details using an offline utility before uploading it to the portal. You can download the utility (Excel or Java) for the relevant Assessment Year (AY) from the ‘Downloads’ section.
Step 3: Prepare and Validate Your Return
Using the downloaded utility, fill in your income details, deductions, taxes paid, etc., as applicable. The utility provides instructions and helps validate your data to ensure accuracy. Make sure all the information matches with Form 16, Form 26AS, and other relevant documents.
Step 4: Generate and Save the XML or JSON File
Once you have filled out the utility and ensured all data is correct, generate the XML or JSON file, which is to be uploaded to the portal.
Step 5: Login and Upload Your Return
- Log in to the e-Filing portal. Navigate to the ‘e-File’ menu and select the ‘Income Tax Return’ link. Choose the Assessment Year, ITR Form Number, and the Submission Mode as ‘Upload XML’ or ‘Upload JSON’, depending on the utility used.
- Upload the XML or JSON file you generated, and fill in the remaining required details.
Step 6: Verify Your Return
- After uploading, you can verify your return through various methods like Aadhaar OTP, EVC through your bank account, demat account, or you can physically send a signed ITR-V (Acknowledgement) to the CPC (Central Processing Centre) in Bengaluru within 120 days of e-filing.
- E-verification is instant and completes the process without needing to send anything by post.
Step 7: Acknowledgement
Once the return is successfully uploaded and verified, you will receive an acknowledgement from the Income Tax Department. This acknowledgement is also sent to your registered email address.
Important Points to Note:
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Pre-Filled Data:
For convenience, the portal now offers pre-filled ITR forms with personal and financial information. Review this information carefully for any discrepancies or omissions.
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Keep Documents Handy:
Even though you are filing electronically, it is crucial to have all relevant documents, like Form 16, bank statements, proof of investments, etc., handy for reference and to ensure accuracy.
- Deadlines:
Be aware of the tax filing deadlines to avoid penalties for late filing. The usual due date for individuals is July 31st of the AY, unless extended by the government.
