As the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) approaches, many taxpayers are rushing to submit their returns. While online filing has simplified the process, last-minute submissions often lead to errors. These mistakes can cause delays in refunds, penalties, or even trigger notices from the Income Tax Department.
The good news is that most ITR filing errors can be avoided with a little care—and rectified later if they do occur.
Common ITR Filing Mistakes to Avoid
1. Choosing the Wrong ITR Form
Every taxpayer category has a specific ITR form. For instance, salaried employees, self-employed professionals, and business owners must file different forms. Filing the wrong one may result in a “defective return” notice. Always check the latest form applicable to your case before submitting.
2. Missing Out on Income Sources
Many taxpayers forget to report income from fixed deposits, capital gains, freelance work, or side businesses. Since all income is linked to your PAN, the omission can invite scrutiny. Always disclose all income sources to avoid discrepancies.
3. Ignoring Form 26AS and AIS Reconciliation
For salaried employees, reconciling Form 16 with Form 26AS (and AIS/TIS) is essential. These reflect TDS deductions and other reported transactions. Any mismatch may lead to incorrect tax computation. Double-check these forms before filing.
4. Not E-Verifying the Return
Filing the ITR is not the last step. You must e-verify it within 120 days, using options such as Aadhaar OTP, net banking, Demat account verification, or by posting a signed acknowledgment to CPC Bengaluru. An unverified return is treated as invalid.
How to Rectify ITR Filing Mistakes
Despite being careful, mistakes can still happen. Fortunately, the Income Tax Act provides a way to fix them.
- Under Section 154, taxpayers can submit a Rectification Request to correct:
- Clerical errors
- Calculation mistakes
- Mismatched tax credits
- Advance tax discrepancies
- Incomplete income reporting
This ensures your return is accurate and prevents unnecessary complications later.
Final Word
With the ITR deadline nearing, taxpayers should take extra care to avoid common mistakes. Always select the correct form, report all income sources, reconcile with Form 26AS/AIS, and e-verify your return. In case of an error, use the rectification process provided by the Income Tax Department.
Staying cautious today can save you from penalties, delays, and stress tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if I file the wrong ITR form?
If you select the wrong ITR form, the Income Tax Department may issue a “defective return” notice. You’ll need to re-file using the correct form.
2. Can I revise my ITR after submission?
Yes, if you discover a mistake, you can file a revised return before the deadline for the assessment year. For factual or clerical corrections, you can also file a rectification request under Section 154.
3. What if I forget to report some income in my ITR?
Unreported income may trigger scrutiny since all income is linked to your PAN. If missed, you should revise your ITR or file a rectification request.
4. Is e-verification of ITR mandatory?
Yes. If you don’t e-verify within 120 days of filing, your return will be treated as invalid. You can verify using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, Demat account, or by posting a signed ITR-V to CPC Bengaluru.
5. How do I file a rectification request?
You can log in to the Income Tax e-filing portal, select the relevant return, and choose the “Rectification Request” option to correct mistakes like mismatched tax credits, calculation errors, or incomplete income reporting.