Highlights:

  • Learn how to file your Income Tax Return (ITR) online for Assessment Year 2026–27 using the Income Tax e-filing portal.
  • Explore the documents required before filing, including Form 16, AIS, Form 26AS, and deduction proofs.
  • Understand how to choose the correct ITR form based on your income sources and taxpayer profile.
  • Learn why verifying pre-filled details and completing e-verification within 30 days is essential.
  • Explore important filing deadlines, late fees, and practical tips to avoid common mistakes.

Introduction

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is a mandatory annual compliance for most taxpayers in India. The process has become much simpler with the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal. Whether you are a first-time filer or filing regularly, this guide walks you through the complete process for Assessment Year 2026-27 (Financial Year 2025-26).

Documents You Need Before Filing ITR

  • Form 16 (from employer)
  • PAN Card & Aadhaar (linked)
  • Bank statements and Form 26AS / Annual Information Statement (AIS)
  • Investment proofs for deductions (Section 80C, 80D, etc.)
  • Capital gains statements (if applicable)
  • Home loan interest certificate (if claiming deduction)

Log into the e-filing portal and check Form 26AS and AIS first. These contain pre-filled income and TDS details reported by third parties.

Choosing the Right ITR Form

ITR-1 (Sahaj):
For resident individuals with total income up to ₹50 lakh from:

  • Salary or pension
  • One house property
  • Other sources, such as interest income
  • Agricultural income up to ₹5,000

ITR-2:
For individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who do not have business or professional income but have:

  • Capital gains from shares, mutual funds, or property
  • Income from more than one house property
  • Foreign assets or foreign income
  • Income exceeding the eligibility limits of ITR-1

ITR-3 :
For individuals and HUFs earning income from:

  • A business or profession
  • Proprietorship firms
  • Freelancing, consulting, or professional services
  • Trading in derivatives (F&O) or other business activities requiring detailed profit-and-loss reporting

ITR-4 (Sugam):
For resident individuals, HUFs, and firms (other than LLPs) opting for the presumptive taxation scheme under Sections 44AD, 44ADA, or 44AE, with total income up to ₹50 lakh (subject to applicable eligibility conditions).

Step-by-Step: Filing ITR Online

  • Visit the e-Filing Portal: Go to incometax.gov.in and log in using PAN and password.
  • Select Filing Option: Go to e-File → Income Tax Returns → File Income Tax Return.
  • Choose Assessment Year: Select AY 2026-27 and Online mode.
  • Fill in Details:
    • Enter personal information (pre-filled in most cases).
    • Add income from all sources.
    • Claim deductions and exemptions.
    • Verify pre-filled data from Form 26AS/AIS.
  • Review & Submit: Check the tax computation summary, preview the return, and submit. Note the Acknowledgement Number.
  • E-Verify Your Return: You have 30 days from filing to e-verify. Unverified returns are treated as invalid. Preferred Methods:
    • Aadhaar OTP (fastest)
    • Net Banking
    • Bank Account / Demat EVC
    • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

ITR Filing Deadlines and Late Penalties

  • Original Due Date: 31 July 2026 (for non-audit cases)
  • Belated Return: Up to 31 December 2026 (with late fee)

Late Filing Penalty: Up to ₹5,000 (₹1,000 if income ≤ ₹5 lakh) under Section 234F + interest on tax due.

Note: FY 2025–26 refers to the income earned period, while AY 2026–27 is the year in which that income is assessed and taxed.

Key Takeaway for DIY Filers

  • Start early and keep documents ready.
  • Always cross-check pre-filled data with your records.
  • Complete e-verification promptly.
  • File on time to avoid penalties and retain the right to carry forward losses.

FAQs

1. What is the last date for the income tax return for FY 2025-26?

The due date for filing ITR 1 and ITR 2 is 31st July 2026.

2. Can I file ITR online without Form 16?

Yes. Use salary slips, bank statements, Form 26AS, and AIS to verify income and TDS deductions. Accurate income calculation is essential even without Form 16 from your employer.

3. Which ITR form should a salaried individual file?

ITR-1 if total income is up to ₹50 lakh from salary, one house property, and other sources. ITR-2 applies when you have capital gains or multiple properties.

4. How do I verify my ITR after filing online?

E-verify within 30 days using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, bank account EVC, demat account EVC, or DSC. Alternatively, send the signed ITR-V by post to CPC Bengaluru.

5. What happens if I miss the ITR filing deadline?

File a belated return by 31 December with a late fee of ₹1,000 (income below ₹5 lakh) or ₹5,000 (above ₹5 lakh). You cannot carry forward certain losses.