Filing your Income Tax Return Filing Online is a crucial responsibility for every taxpayer in India. With the advent of digital platforms, the process has become more streamlined, accessible, and efficient. For the Financial Year (FY) 2024-25, corresponding to the Assessment Year (AY) 2025-26, the Income Tax Department has introduced updates to its e-filing portal and extended the filing deadline to September 15, 2025, for non-audit cases, providing taxpayers with additional time to ensure accuracy and compliance.
This comprehensive guide, tailored for the CashMints audience, walks you through the step-by-step process of filing your ITR online for AY 2025-26. Whether you’re a salaried individual, a self-employed professional, or a senior citizen, this article will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the e-filing portal confidently. Let’s dive in and make tax filing a hassle-free experience!
Income Tax Return Filing Online by CashMints is a step-by-step guide that simplifies the often intimidating process of filing taxes digitally. With many governments moving toward online platforms, this book shows readers how to navigate the system with ease, accuracy, and confidence.
The guide begins by explaining the importance of filing returns, even for those with modest incomes. It outlines the benefits of online filing, such as faster processing, fewer errors, and quicker refunds. CashMints then walks readers through the preparation stage, gathering documents like income statements, deduction proofs, and bank details—before starting the filing process.
Clear instructions are provided on how to register on tax portals, select the correct income tax form, and enter financial details step by step. The book also highlights common mistakes people make, such as misreporting income or overlooking eligible deductions, and explains how to avoid them.
To make the process less stressful, CashMints includes practical tips for verifying returns, tracking status, and keeping digital records for future reference.
Income Tax Return Filing Online is ideal for salaried individuals, freelancers, and small business owners. It provides the clarity and confidence needed to file taxes correctly while making full use of digital tools.
Why Income Tax Return Filing Online is Essential in 2025
Filing your ITR is not just a legal obligation but also a financial necessity. It ensures compliance with the Income Tax Act, 1961, and offers several benefits:
- Legal Compliance: If your income exceeds the basic exemption limit (₹3 lakh under the new tax regime or ₹2.5 lakh under the old regime for individuals below 60), filing ITR is mandatory.
- Access to Financial Benefits: A filed ITR is often required for loan approvals, visa applications, or credit card issuance.
- Claim Refunds: Filing ITR allows you to claim refunds for excess tax deducted at source (TDS).
- Avoid Penalties: Missing the deadline can result in a late fee of up to ₹5,000 (₹1,000 for incomes below ₹5 lakh) and interest under Section 234A.
With the extended deadline of September 15, 2025, for non-audit cases, there’s no excuse to delay. Start early to avoid last-minute stress and ensure accuracy.
Key Updates for ITR Filing in 2025
The Income Tax Department has introduced several updates for AY 2025-26 to simplify the filing process:
- Extended Deadline: The due date for non-audit cases has been extended from July 31 to September 15, 2025, due to revisions in ITR forms and system upgrades.
- Enhanced E-Filing Portal: The portal now offers pre-filled data, improved compatibility for ITR-1 and ITR-4, and reporting of capital gains.
- Excel Utilities: Offline utilities for ITR-1, ITR-2, ITR-3, and ITR-4 are available for seamless filing.
- ITR-3 Online Filing: Taxpayers with income from business or profession can now file ITR-3 entirely online.
These updates make 2025 an ideal year to embrace online filing for a smoother, error-free experience.
Who Needs to File ITR in 2025?
Filing ITR is mandatory for individuals meeting specific criteria under the Income Tax Act, 1961:
- Income Threshold: If your total income exceeds ₹3 lakh (new regime) or ₹2.5 lakh (old regime for individuals below 60). Senior citizens (60–80 years) have a limit of ₹3.5 lakh, and super senior citizens (80+ years) have a limit of ₹5 lakh under the old regime.
- Specific Expenditures: If you’ve spent over ₹2 lakh on foreign travel, deposited ₹1 crore in current accounts, or paid electricity bills exceeding ₹1 lakh in a year.
- Business or Professional Income: Individuals with income from business or profession, including presumptive income, must file ITR.
- Capital Gains: If you’ve earned capital gains from investments, such as stocks or property, filing is mandatory.
Even if your income is below the taxable limit, filing ITR can help claim refunds or maintain financial records for future benefits.
Documents Required for ITR Filing
Before starting the filing process, gather the following documents to ensure accuracy:
- PAN Card: Your Permanent Account Number is your login ID for the e-filing portal.
- Aadhaar Card: Linked to PAN for verification purposes.
- Form 16: Provided by your employer, detailing salary and TDS.
- Form 26AS: Summarizes TDS, advance tax, and self-assessment tax.
- Annual Information Statement (AIS): Includes details of income, investments, and transactions.
- Bank Account Details: For refund processing or tax payments.
- Investment Proofs: Documents for deductions under Sections 80C, 80D, etc.
- Capital Gains Statements: For stock, mutual fund, or property transactions.
- Business/Professional Income Records: If applicable, including profit/loss statements.
- Foreign Income Details: If you’ve earned income abroad.
Having these documents handy streamlines the process and minimizes errors.
Step-by-Step Guide to File ITR Online for AY 2025-26
Follow these detailed steps to file your ITR online on the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal:
Step 1: Visit the E-Filing Portal
- Go to the official Income Tax e-filing website: www.incometax.gov.in.
- Click on the “Login” button.
- Enter your PAN as the User ID, input your password, and click “Continue.” New users can register using PAN, Aadhaar, and contact details.
- After logging in, click on the “e-File” tab in the top menu.
- Select “Income Tax Returns” and then “File Income Tax Return.”
Step 3: Select Assessment Year and Filing Mode
- Choose “AY 2025-26” for FY 2024-25.
- Select “Online” as the mode of filing.
- Choose the filing type: “Original Return” or “Revised Return.”
Step 4: Choose Your Filing Status
- Select your status: Individual, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), or Others.
- For most taxpayers, select “Individual” and click “Continue.”
Step 5: Select the Appropriate ITR Form
- Choose the correct ITR form based on your income sources:
- ITR-1 (Sahaj): For salaried individuals with income up to ₹50 lakh, including limited other sources like interest or rental income.
- ITR-2: For individuals/HUFs with capital gains or complex income sources (excluding business/profession).
- ITR-3: For individuals/HUFs with income from business or profession.
- ITR-4 (Sugam): For presumptive income from business or profession.
- Refer to Form 16, 26AS, or AIS to determine the right form.
Step 6: Specify the Reason for Filing
- Select the reason for filing your return, such as:
- Taxable income above the exemption limit.
- Specific criteria like high-value transactions (e.g., ₹1 crore in bank deposits).
- Other applicable reasons.
Step 7: Validate Pre-Filled Data
- The portal auto-populates details like PAN, Aadhaar, name, contact information, and bank details.
- Verify and edit if necessary. Ensure your bank account is pre-validated for refunds.
Step 8: Enter Income and Deduction Details
- Input income details from Form 16, 26AS, or AIS, including:
- Salary income.
- Interest from savings accounts, fixed deposits, etc.
- Capital gains from investments.
- Business or professional income (if applicable).
- Claim deductions under Sections 80C (e.g., PPF, LIC), 80D (health insurance), etc.
- Double-check for accuracy to avoid discrepancies.
Step 9: Calculate Tax Liability
- The portal calculates your tax liability based on the chosen tax regime (old or new).
- The new tax regime is the default for AY 2025-26. To opt for the old regime, select “Yes” in the Personal Information section.
- Pay any outstanding taxes via the “e-Pay Tax” option if applicable.
Step 10: Preview and Validate
- Review the summary of your return, including income, deductions, and tax payable/refunded.
- Validate all entries to ensure no errors.
Step 11: Submit the ITR
- Click “File Now” and upload the JSON file (if using offline utility) or submit directly.
- Ensure all mandatory fields are complete.
Step 12: E-Verify Your Return
- Verify your ITR within 30 days using one of these methods:
- Aadhaar OTP: Link your Aadhaar to PAN for OTP-based verification.
- Electronic Verification Code (EVC): Generate via net banking or at the bank.
- Physical ITR-V: Send a signed ITR-V to CPC, Bengaluru.
- E-verification is quick and recommended for faster processing.
Also Read: How to Create a Family Budget: The Complete Guide
Filing ITR Offline: An Alternative Option
If you prefer offline filing, follow these steps:
- Download the Offline Utility: Visit the “Downloads” section of the e-filing portal and install the Common Offline Utility for ITR-1, ITR-2, ITR-3, or ITR-4.
- Select AY 2025-26: Launch the utility and choose “File Return.”
- Download Pre-Filled Data: Enter your PAN, select AY 2025-26, and log in to download pre-filled data.
- Enter Details: Input income, deductions, and other details as prompted.
- Validate and Generate JSON: Verify all entries and generate a JSON file.
- Upload to Portal: Log in to the e-filing portal, go to “File Now,” upload the JSON file, and proceed to verification.
Offline filing is ideal for complex returns or if you prefer working at your own pace.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure a smooth filing experience, steer clear of these pitfalls:
- Choosing the Wrong ITR Form: Select the form that matches your income sources.
- Incorrect Pre-Filled Data: Always verify auto-populated details for accuracy.
- Missing Deductions: Claim all eligible deductions to reduce tax liability.
- Late Filing: File by September 15, 2025, to avoid penalties of up to ₹5,000.
- Skipping E-Verification: Complete verification within 30 days to finalize your return.
What Happens After Filing?
Once your ITR is filed and verified:
- Processing by CPC: The Central Processing Center (CPC) processes your return, usually within a few weeks.
- Refund Processing: If eligible, refunds are credited to your validated bank account.
- Intimation Notice: You’ll receive an intimation under Section 143(1) detailing tax calculations or discrepancies.
- Check Status: Log in to the portal, go to “e-File” > “Income Tax Returns” > “View Filed Returns” to track your return status.
Conclusion – Income Tax Return Filing Online
Don’t wait until the last minute to file your ITR! The extended deadline of September 15, 2025, gives you ample time to gather documents, review details, and file accurately. Visit www.incometax.gov.in today to start the e-filing process. For expert assistance, explore CashMints’ tax filing resources and tools to simplify your journey. File now, stay compliant, and secure your financial future!
FAQs – Income Tax Return Filing Online
1. What is the last date to file ITR for AY 2025-26?
The deadline for non-audit cases is September 15, 2025, extended from July 31, 2025. For audit cases, it’s October 31, 2025, and for cases under Section 92E, it’s November 30, 2025.
2. Who needs to file Income Tax Return Filing Online 2025?
Individuals with income above ₹3 lakh (new regime) or ₹2.5 lakh (old regime), high-value transactions, or specific criteria like foreign travel expenses must file ITR.
3. Which ITR form should I choose?
Choose ITR-1 for salaried individuals (income up to ₹50 lakh), ITR-2 for capital gains, ITR-3 for business income, or ITR-4 for presumptive income. Refer to Form 16 or AIS for guidance.
4. What happens if I miss the ITR filing deadline?
You can file a belated return by December 31, 2025, with a late fee of ₹5,000 (₹1,000 for incomes below ₹5 lakh) and interest under Section 234A.
5. How do I e-verify my ITR?
Use Aadhaar OTP, EVC via net banking, or send a signed ITR-V to CPC, Bengaluru, within 30 days.
6. Can I file ITR offline?
Yes, download the offline utility from the e-filing portal, generate a JSON file, and upload it to the portal for submission and verification.
7. What documents are required for ITR filing?
You need PAN, Aadhaar, Form 16, Form 26AS, AIS, bank details, investment proofs, and capital gains statements.
8. How do I check my ITR status?
Log in to the e-filing portal, go to “e-File” > “Income Tax Returns” > “View Filed Returns” to check the status.
9. What is the difference between old and new tax regimes?
The new regime (default for AY 2025-26) has lower tax rates but fewer deductions. The old regime offers more deductions but higher tax rates. Choose based on your income and investments.
10. Can I claim a refund if I file ITR?
Yes, if excess TDS or advance tax was deducted, you can claim a refund, credited to your validated bank account after processing.
