Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is only half the job. For many taxpayers, the refund remains stuck due to simple mistakes—primarily missing e-verification or entering wrong bank details. The Income Tax Department has made it clear: refunds are processed only after e-verification is completed.
Here’s everything you need to know in an easy-to-read guide.
1. E-Verification: The Key to Unlocking Your Refund
Once you file your ITR, you must e-verify within 30 days.
Without this step, your return remains incomplete and the refund process won’t start.
E-verification can be done through Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or a wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital signature.
2. Incorrect bank Details Can Stall Your Refund
Many taxpayers enter wrong account numbers or IFSC codes.
Ensure that:
Your PAN is linked to your bank account.
The account is active and validated in the e-filing portal.
If bank details are wrong, update them immediately and re-verify.
3. Timelines for Refund Processing
ITR-1 filers usually receive refunds within 10–15 days.
ITR-2 filers may need to wait 20–45 days.
ITR-3 filers might experience up to two months of processing time.
4. Common Mistakes That Delay Refunds
Filing ITR with incorrect income details.
Not completing e-verification within 30 days.
Using a bank account not linked to PAN.
Failing to respond to Income Tax Department notices promptly.
5. Revised Returns May Be Required
If you spot mistakes after filing, submit a revised return.
The refund process for a revised return starts only after e-verification of the revised ITR.
6. How to Check Your Refund Status
Visit incometax.gov.in and log in with your credentials.
Go to ‘View Returns/Forms’ → ‘Income Tax Returns’ to track refund status.
Alternatively, check via the TIN NSDL portal using PAN and assessment year.
7. What to Do If Refund Is Still Delayed?
Contact Income Tax Department’s helpline at 1800-103-4455.
Send an email to ask@incometax.gov.in for assistance.
Ensure all compliance issues are cleared, and no outstanding demands are pending.
8. Final Tip – Don’t Miss the 30-Day Rule!
The biggest reason for refund delays is failure to e-verify on time. Do it immediately after filing to avoid unnecessary wait and hassles.
.jpg)
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel