As the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing deadline approaches, many taxpayers rush to submit their returns—only to realize they’ve missed key steps. Here’s a complete checklist to ensure your ITR is accurate, compliant, and audit-proof.
✅ 1. Pick the Right ITR Form
Don’t just click and file. Choosing the wrong ITR form can result in a defective return. Salaried employees typically use ITR-1 or ITR-2, while business professionals may need ITR-3 or ITR-4.
✅ 2. Verify Form 26AS and AIS
Download and cross-check Form 26AS and AIS (Annual Information Statement) for TDS, dividends, interest income, and high-value transactions. Any mismatch can delay your refund or invite notices.
✅ 3. Report All Income—Even Tax-Free Ones
Disclose all income, including:
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Interest from savings and FDs
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Crypto or foreign income
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Dividend income—even if tax-free
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Gifts, winnings, or capital gains
✅ 4. Maximize Deductions
Claim eligible deductions under:
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Section 80C (LIC, PPF, ELSS, tuition fees)
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Section 80D (health insurance premiums)
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Section 24 (home loan interest)
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Section 80E (education loan interest)
✅ 5. Link PAN, Validate Bank
Ensure PAN is linked to Aadhaar, and your bank account is validated for refund credit.
✅ 6. E-Verify Immediately
Filing is incomplete without e-verification. You can do this via Aadhaar OTP, NetBanking, or pre-filled DSC.
🔚 Final Tip
Don’t wait till the last hour. Filing early gives time to fix errors and ensures faster refunds. Take 30 minutes today to do it right—your financial peace of mind depends on it.