SOURCE : NEW18 NEWS
Last Updated:April 28, 2025, 09:56 IST
While filing portal may open soon, most salaried individuals actually begin filing a little later — usually after they receive their Form 16. Check when Form 16 will be available.
The ITR filing season 2025 is going to take off soon with the government likely to notify income tax return forms in a few days.
Income Tax Return Filing 2025: As the new assessment year 2025-26 begins, lakhs of taxpayers are gearing up for the next big step — filing their Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year (AY) 2024-25. The income tax department is expected to soon notify the updated ITR forms, setting the stage for the e-filing process to officially begin.
When Will ITR Filing 2025 Start?
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The filing of ITRs usually kicks off in April, once the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) releases the relevant forms. For AY 2025–26 (covering income earned during the financial year 2024–25), the ITR offline and online forms are likely to be notified and made available for filing soon.
However, it’s important to note that while the filing portal may open this month or in May, most salaried individuals actually begin filing a little later — usually after they receive their Form 16.
When Will You Receive Form 16?
Form 16 is a critical document for salaried taxpayers. It is issued by employers and provides a detailed summary of the salary paid and the tax deducted at source (TDS) during the financial year. As per the income tax rules, employers must issue Form 16 by June 15, 2025.
Since Form 16 is crucial for filing an accurate ITR, most salaried individuals typically wait until they receive this document before starting the filing process. Hence, the bulk of ITR filings by salaried taxpayers usually happens in late May or June.
Important Deadlines for ITR Filing 2025
- E-filing portal opening: Expected in April 2025
- Form 16 issuance deadline: June 15, 2025
- ITR filing deadline (for non-audit cases): July 31, 2025
Experts suggest taxpayers to file return well before the July 31 deadline to avoid last-minute issues and penalties.
How Soon Will You Get Your Refund?
The income tax department has significantly improved the speed of refund processing in recent years. If you are eligible for a refund — due to excess TDS or advance tax — you can expect to receive it within 7 to 20 days after filing and verifying your return, provided there are no errors or discrepancies.
To ensure a quick refund:
- Verify your return promptly, preferably using Aadhaar-based OTP or other available methods.
- Make sure your bank account is pre-validated and correctly linked to your PAN.
- Double-check all details and calculations before submitting your return.
- Taxpayers who file early — especially before the July 31 deadline — often receive their refunds faster.
A Few Tips for a Smooth ITR Filing Experience
Use Pre-filled ITRs Carefully: The Income Tax Department now offers pre-filled ITR forms for easier filing. However, you must cross-check all pre-filled information before final submission.
Keep Documents Handy: Apart from Form 16, gather details of other income (like interest on savings accounts, dividends, etc.), tax-saving investments, and deductions.
Update Your Bank Details: Ensure your bank account is active, pre-validated, and correctly linked with your PAN for a smooth refund experience.
File Early: Filing early helps you avoid last-minute technical glitches and speeds up refund processing.
