This guide is general information. If you would rather a chartered accountant handled it, see ITR Filing Online.
Filing your income tax return online takes less than an hour if you are prepared. This guide walks through the process on the official e-filing portal and points out where people usually go wrong.
Step 1: Gather your documents
- PAN, Aadhaar and a mobile number linked to Aadhaar
- Form 16 from every employer
- Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement (AIS), both downloadable from the portal
- Bank interest certificates and statements
- Capital gains statements from brokers and fund houses
- Proofs of deductions you plan to claim
Step 2: Log in and start the return
Log in to the income tax e-filing portal with your PAN. Go to e-File, then Income Tax Returns, then File Income Tax Return. Select the assessment year and choose online mode. Much of the data, such as salary and interest, is pre-filled from your Form 26AS and AIS.
Step 3: Choose the right ITR form
| Form | Generally used by |
|---|---|
| ITR-1 | Resident individuals with salary, one house property and other income, within the prescribed limits |
| ITR-2 | Individuals and HUFs with capital gains, more than one house property or foreign assets, but no business income |
| ITR-3 | Individuals and HUFs with business or professional income |
| ITR-4 | Resident taxpayers using presumptive taxation, within limits |
Using the wrong form can make the return defective. If you are unsure, check eligibility conditions on the portal or ask a CA.
Step 4: Check every income head
Compare pre-filled figures with your own records. Add income that is missing, such as interest on savings or fixed deposits, dividends and capital gains. Differences between your return and AIS are a common reason for notices.
Step 5: Choose a tax regime and claim deductions
The new tax regime is the default. If you want the old regime with deductions such as Section 80C, 80D and HRA, you must opt for it. Compute your tax under both before deciding. Our guide on the old versus new regime explains the comparison.
Step 6: Pay any tax due and submit
If tax is payable after TDS and advance tax, pay it through the portal before filing and enter the challan details. Preview the return, correct errors and submit.
Step 7: E-verify within 30 days
A return is not complete until it is verified. You can e-verify with Aadhaar OTP, net banking, a bank account or demat account EVC, or a digital signature. Verification is expected within 30 days of filing. Download the acknowledgement and keep it.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring income shown in AIS
- Entering a bank account that is not pre-validated, which delays refunds
- Claiming deductions without proof
- Forgetting to e-verify
Checklist before you click submit
- Salary and TDS match Form 16 and Form 26AS
- Interest and dividend income match the Annual Information Statement
- Capital gains are reported with the right dates and amounts
- Bank account for refund is pre-validated and linked to your PAN
- The regime you chose is the one with lower tax for you
- You have your Aadhaar OTP, net banking or other e-verification method ready
After filing
Once the return is verified, the department processes it and sends an intimation. Check it for any difference between your computation and theirs. If you find a mistake in your own return after filing, file a revised return before the permitted last date.
Mistakes that delay refunds
- Bank account not pre-validated or not linked to PAN.
- Mismatch of name or date of birth between PAN and Aadhaar.
- Return not verified within the allowed time.
- Differences between the return and AIS that trigger a review.
When to use a professional
Consider help if you have capital gains from several sources, rental income from more than one property, foreign income or assets, business or professional income, or an outstanding notice. A professional can also help you choose the better regime and plan for the next year.
Official sources: the Income Tax Department's e-filing portal publishes the forms, instructions, due dates and utilities. Check it for the current rules before filing.
Quick reference for common ITR questions
- Where do I find Form 26AS? On the income tax portal under e-File and Income Tax Returns.
- Where do I see my AIS? In the portal's AIS section, which lists most reportable transactions.
- How do I add a bank account for refund? In the profile section, then validate it.
- How do I check the status of my return? Use the e-File menu and view filed returns.
Frequently asked questions
Can I file my ITR on my phone?
Yes, the e-filing portal works on a mobile browser. For a complex return, a computer is easier because you need to review many schedules.
Do I need a CA to file my return?
Not for a simple salary return. A CA helps if you have capital gains, business income, foreign assets or a notice.
How long should I keep my documents?
Keep records for at least six years from the end of the assessment year, and longer if an assessment or appeal is pending.
What if I made a mistake after verifying?
You can file a revised return within the allowed time, which replaces the original return.
This content is for general information and does not constitute professional advice. Laws, rates and due dates change; confirm the current position for your case. Section references are to the Income-tax Act, 1961 unless stated; the Income-tax Act, 2025 applies to later periods with renumbered sections.