10 Key Steps for Filing Your Income Tax Return (ITR) for FY 2025-26

Taxpayers should gather documents and choose the correct tax regime and ITR form. Verify Annual Information Statement and Form 26AS details carefully before filing. Ensure all personal information and pre-filled data are accurate and verified.

Before you begin filing your income tax return (ITR) for the Financial Year 2025-26, Assessment Year (AY) 2026-27, it is important to gather the necessary documents, verify your income details and choose the correct tax regime and the ITR form. The Income Tax (I-T) Department has advised taxpayers to file their returns well before the due date to avoid the last-minute rush. Here are 10 things to keep in mind before filing your ITR, as advised by the Income Tax Department in a social media post on X (formerly Twitter).

1. Choose the correct tax regime

After considering deductions and exemptions available to you, compare tax liability under both regimes and select the appropriate regime that can help you minimise your tax outgo.

Also read: ITR filing 2026: Is AIS enough to report stock and mutual fund capital gains?

ITR Guide

From ITR filing due dates to right form - know everything about filing your income tax returns for Tax Year 2025-26 or AY 2026-27

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2. Select the right ITR form

Using the correct ITR form is very important. There are seven types of ITR forms in India. The correct form depends on your residency status, income sources and the total income amount. Note that filing your return using the wrong form may result in the return being treated as defective by the Income Tax Department.

3. Check AIS and Form 26AS carefully

Before filing your income tax return, make sure to download and review your Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS. Compare the details with your own records. If you notice any mismatch, reconcile it before filing your return.

4. Keep all important documents ready

Keeping all your documents handy can make the income tax return filing process much smoother. Keep the following documents ready before you start:

Form 16 issued by your employer

Bank statements

Interest certificates from banks and post offices

Investment and deduction proofs, wherever applicable

Details of other income, if any

These documents will help you report your income accurately.

5. Verify pre-filled information

The Income Tax Department provides several details in pre-filled ITR forms. However, do not assume that every detail is correct.

Verify your personal information, including your name, PAN, Aadhaar number, bank account details, email address and the mobile number.

Also ensure that your Aadhaar is linked with your PAN card.

6. Claim deductions correctly

If you are eligible to claim deductions under the old tax regime or any other applicable provisions, ensure that you enter the correct amounts. Cross-check your investment and expenditure details before submitting the return.

Incorrect reporting of deductions may lead to an additional tax demand or a delay in processing your return.

7. Do not provide incorrect information to claim a higher refund

Note that over deductions, underreport income or furnish incorrect details merely to receive a larger tax refund is illegal. Any mismatch may attract scrutiny or notices from the Income Tax Department.

8. File your ITR before the due date

It is always better to file returns before the due date. Filing early gives you enough time to correct mistakes, respond to any issues that may arise and avoid last-minute technical glitches.

9. Avoid penalties and loss of benefits

Missing the due date may result in a late filing fee, interest on unpaid taxes and, in some cases, the loss of certain tax benefits.

10. Complete e-verification after filing

Filing your ITR is not the final step. You must e-verify within the prescribed time limit; otherwise, it will not be treated as a valid return.

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