How to get ITR processed Quickly
To get your income tax return (ITR) processed faster for the financial year 2024-25 (assessment year 2025-26) in India, follow these key steps and best practices:
1. File Your ITR Early
- Filing your ITR well before the deadline (July 31, 2025, for most taxpayers) helps avoid the last-minute rush and reduces the load on the Income Tax Department’s systems.
- Tip: File as soon as you have all necessary documents, such as Form 16, bank statements, and investment proofs.
2. Ensure Accuracy and Completeness
- Errors or omissions in your ITR can lead to delays, as the department may need to send notices or request corrections.
- Tip: Double-check all information, including:
- Income details
- Deductions
- Tax calculations
- Personal information
- Use the pre-filled ITR forms available on the e-filing portal to minimize mistakes.
3. E-File Your ITR
- Electronic filing (e-filing) is faster and more efficient than paper filing. The Income Tax Department prioritizes e-filed returns for quicker processing.
- Tip: Use the official e-filing portal (www.incometax.gov.in) or authorized platforms like ClearTax to file your return electronically.
4. Verify Your ITR Promptly
- ITR processing begins only after verification. Delays in verification can significantly slow down the process.
- Tip: E-verify your ITR immediately after filing using options like:
- Aadhaar OTP
- Net banking
- Bank account validation
- Avoid sending physical ITR-V forms, as this can take longer.
5. Provide Correct Bank Account Details
- Incorrect bank details (e.g., wrong account number or IFSC code) can cause refund failures or delays.
- Tip: Ensure your bank account is:
- Pre-validated on the e-filing portal
- Linked to your PAN
- Double-check the account number and IFSC code before submitting.
6. Choose the Right ITR Form
- Simpler forms like ITR-1 (for salaried individuals with straightforward income) are processed faster than complex forms like ITR-3 (for business income or capital gains).
- Tip: Select the correct ITR form based on your income sources. Use ITR-1 or ITR-2 for simpler income to expedite processing.
7. Avoid Common Mistakes
- Mistakes such as incorrect PAN, mismatched income figures with Form 26AS, or claiming ineligible deductions can trigger scrutiny and delays.
- Tip: Cross-verify your income with Form 26AS (which shows TDS details) and ensure all deductions are correctly claimed.
8. Track Your ITR Status and Respond Promptly
- If there are any issues or discrepancies, the department may send notices or requests for clarification. Responding quickly can prevent further delays.
- Tip: Regularly check your email and the e-filing portal for notifications. If you receive a notice, address it immediately.
9. File a Revised Return if Necessary
- If you discover errors after filing, filing a revised return before December 31, 2025, can correct mistakes and avoid processing delays.
- Tip: Ensure the revised return is accurate to prevent further issues.
10. Follow Up if Delayed
- If your ITR isn’t processed within the expected timeframe (typically 15-45 days after e-verification), take action to resolve any issues.
- Tip: Check the status on the e-filing portal. If it remains unprocessed:
- Lodge a complaint via the “Grievance” tab on the portal
- Contact the Central Processing Centre (CPC) at 1800-103-0025
Additional Notes
- Processing Time: While the average processing time is 15-45 days, the department has up to 9 months from the end of the financial year to process returns (until December 31, 2025, for FY 2024-25).
- Refund Timeline: Once processed, refunds are typically issued within 4-5 weeks. However, delays can occur due to high volumes or discrepancies.
- Updated Returns: If you miss the deadline, you can file an updated return until March 31, 2028, but this may involve penalties and is not ideal for faster processing.
By following these steps, you can significantly increase the chances of getting your ITR processed quickly and receiving any refunds without unnecessary delays.