With the financial year coming to a close, the deadline for filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is fast approaching. For many, this annual ritual might seem daunting. However, armed with the right knowledge, the process becomes straightforward.
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ITR Filing: A Comprehensive Guide
General Knowledge • 31 Jul, 2023 • 1,035 Views
By: Anand Swami
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The Income Tax Return is the form in which taxpayers declare their taxable incomes, deductions, and tax payments. The last date for salaried individuals and non-audit cases to file ITR for the financial year 2022-23 is today, July 31st. As of July 30, a whopping 5.83 crore returns have already been filed. Let's break down the essentials of ITR filing in India.
Significance of ITR Filing

- Proof of Income: Your ITR acts as proof of income, which can be beneficial for loan applications and visa processes.
- Claiming Refund: If excess tax has been deducted from your income, you can only claim a refund if you've filed your ITR.
- Carry Forward Losses: To carry forward and set off your capital losses against future capital gains, filing an ITR is essential.
Consequences of Missing the Deadline

- Belated ITR: Those missing the deadline can still file a belated ITR, but with a penalty. A maximum penalty of Rs 5,000 is imposed if the ITR is filed after the due date.
- Restrictions on Carrying Forward Losses: Taxpayers cannot carry forward losses from the current Assessment Year if they fail to file the ITR.
- Prosecution: Deliberate avoidance can lead to prosecution, especially after receiving notices from the Income Tax Department.
The ITR Filing Process

- Choose the Right Form: Depending on the nature of your income, select the correct ITR form.
- Gather Necessary Documents: This includes PAN, Aadhaar, bank statements, TDS certificates, and other investment proofs.
- E-filing: Use the government's online portal to e-file your returns for added convenience.
Eligibility Criteria

- Income Threshold: It's mandatory to file an ITR if your income exceeds the non-taxable limit, which varies based on age groups and residency status.
- Claiming Refund: Even if your income is below the taxable limit, you should file an ITR if you want to claim a refund.
Types of ITR Forms

- ITR-1 (Sahaj): For salaried individuals with a single house property and income less than Rs 50 lakh.
- ITR-2: This is for individuals and HUFs who do not have any income from a business or profession.
- Other Forms: Depending on the nature of income and status of the taxpayer, there are various forms like ITR-3, ITR-4, and so on.
Key Deadlines to Remember

- Regular Deadline: July 31st for salaried individuals and non-audit cases for the respective financial year.
- Extended Deadlines: Sometimes, the government may extend the deadline due to unforeseen circumstances or technical glitches.
Importance of Timely Filing

- Avoid Penalties: Timely filing ensures you're not burdened with late fees.
- Financial Discipline: Regularly filing returns promotes financial discipline and aids in better financial planning.
Benefits of E-filing

- E-filing makes the ITR process more streamlined, offers quicker refunds, and ensures a more secure submission. The portal also provides easy access to previous years' tax records and acknowledgement receipts.
Role of Aadhaar in ITR

- Aadhaar-PAN Linking is now mandatory for ITR filing. The synchronization ensures transparency, reduces tax evasion, and simplifies the verification process, promoting a hassle-free tax filing experience.
Conclusion
Filing your ITR is not just a statutory obligation but a testament to your financial discipline. Remember, it's always beneficial to file your return well in advance to avoid last-minute glitches and ensure accuracy. When in doubt, consult a tax advisor or the official Income Tax Department website for guidance.
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