Income tax return filing: who must file, due dates and which ITR form

Most people with taxable income in India have to file an income tax return every year. This guide explains who must file, the usual due dates, how to choose your ITR form and what to keep ready.

Who must file an income tax return?

You generally need to file if your total income before deductions is above the basic exemption limit for the tax regime you follow. That limit changes with the Union Budget, so check the current figure on the income tax portal.

Some people must file even when their income is below the limit, for example if they hold assets outside India, have deposited or spent large amounts as defined in the rules, or want to carry forward a loss. Filing is also how you claim a refund of tax that was deducted in excess.

What are the usual due dates?

• Individuals and others whose accounts do not need an audit: usually 31 July after the end of the financial year
• Businesses and professionals whose accounts need an audit: usually 31 October
• The government sometimes extends these dates, so confirm the date for the year you are filing

You can still file a belated return after the due date, and a revised return if you find a mistake, but a late fee and interest may apply. Our guide to revised and belated returns explains the options.

Which ITR form should I use?

• ITR-1 (Sahaj): resident individuals with salary or pension, one house property and other simple income, within the income limit set in the form
• ITR-2: individuals and families with capital gains, more than one house property, foreign income or higher income, but no business income
• ITR-3: individuals and partners who earn business or professional income
• ITR-4 (Sugam): small businesses and professionals who opt for presumptive taxation

Using the wrong form can make the return defective, so check your income sources before you pick one.

What documents do I need?

• PAN and Aadhaar, linked to each other
• Form 16 from your employer, if you are a salaried employee
• Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement from the portal
• Bank statements and interest certificates
• Proof of investments and deductions you want to claim
• Capital gains statements from brokers or mutual fund houses
• For business income: profit and loss account, balance sheet and, where applicable, the audit report

What happens after I file?

You must e-verify the return within the time limit shown on the portal, otherwise it is treated as not filed. After processing, you receive an intimation. Any refund is credited to your pre-validated bank account.

Do I need help to file?

Simple salary-only returns are easy to file yourself. If you have capital gains, business income, foreign assets or a notice from the department, it is worth having an expert review the return. See our individual ITR filing and business and proprietor ITR filing services.

This article is general information, not individual professional advice. Limits, forms and due dates change, so check the official income tax portal or ask our Experts before you act.