Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is a critical responsibility, and even seemingly minor errors can lead to significant delays in receiving your refund. As the September 15, 2025 deadline approaches for taxpayers not requiring an audit, it's crucial to understand how to avoid these pitfalls. This article will explore common errors that cause refund delays and provide guidance on ensuring a smooth ITR filing experience.

Common Errors That Delay Refunds

Several common mistakes can trigger notices from the Income Tax Department and delay the processing of your refund. Here's a breakdown of these errors:

• Mismatch in Income Details: Discrepancies between the income reported in your ITR and the information available in Form 16, Form 26AS, or the Annual Information Statement (AIS) are a frequent cause of delays. The Income Tax Department compares these documents, and any mismatch may lead to a notice for clarification or revision. To avoid this, carefully cross-check all income details before filing your return.
• Non-Disclosure of Income: Failing to report income from all sources, such as interest, rental income, or capital gains, is another common mistake. Taxpayers should declare all sources of income to avoid penalties and notices. Interest and fixed deposit income should be correctly reported, especially in the case of joint accounts.
• Incorrect Deductions: Claiming deductions you are not eligible for or claiming excess deductions can also cause delays. Familiarize yourself with eligible deductions under sections like 80C, 80D, and 80TTA, and ensure you have the necessary documentation to support your claims.
• Using the Wrong ITR Form: Selecting the incorrect ITR form can lead to disruptions and a defect notice. For example, using ITR Form 1 when your salary exceeds ₹50 lakh or if you have capital gains income is an error. Choose the correct form based on your income sources and other criteria.
• Failure to E-Verify: E-verification is a crucial step in completing your ITR filing. Failing to e-verify your return within 30 days means it won't be processed, and your refund will be delayed. Use methods like Aadhaar OTP, EVC, net banking, or a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to e-verify your return promptly.
• Incorrect Bank Details: Providing incorrect or unvalidated bank account details is a common reason for refund delays. Ensure your bank account details, including the account number and IFSC code, are accurate and pre-validated on the e-filing portal.
• Quoting the Wrong Assessment Year: When filing your return, ensure you select the correct Assessment Year (AY). For the financial year 2024-25, the correct AY is 2025-26.
• Not Paying Advance Tax: If your total tax dues exceed ₹10,000, you are required to pay advance tax in installments. Failing to do so may lead to interest under Sections 234B and 234C.

Avoiding Delays and Ensuring a Smooth Filing

To ensure your ITR filing is accurate and your refund is processed without delays, consider the following steps:

• Reconcile Your Information: Cross-check your ITR with Form 16, Form 26AS, and AIS to identify any discrepancies. The AIS provides a consolidated view of your financial data reported to the tax department, helping you prevent mismatches.
• Maintain Accurate Records: Keep a personal log of assets, investments, and income sources to reconcile with your tax documents. Maintain proper documentation proving ownership of funds in joint accounts.
• File Before the Deadline: Filing your ITR well before the deadline of September 15, 2025, can help you avoid a last-minute rush and ensure quicker refund processing.
• E-Verify Promptly: E-verify your ITR immediately after filing to ensure it is considered complete and eligible for processing.
• Update and Validate Bank Details: Add and validate your bank account on the e-filing portal to receive your refund directly.
• Respond to Notices: If you receive any notice from the Income Tax Department, respond promptly to avoid further delays and potential penalties.
• Seek Professional Help: If you find the ITR filing process overwhelming or have complex financial situations, consider seeking help from a qualified tax professional. Platforms like TaxBuddy offer user-friendly interfaces and expert assistance to guide you through the filing process and minimize errors.

By paying attention to detail, maintaining accurate records, and filing your ITR on time, you can minimize the risk of errors and ensure a smooth and timely refund process.