How to File Income Tax Return (ITR) Online
Filing your Income Tax Return is mandatory if your income exceeds the basic exemption limit. Here's a complete guide to filing ITR online on the e-filing portal.
Which ITR Form to Use
ITR-1 (Sahaj): Salary income up to ₹50L + one house property + other sources. ITR-2: Salary + capital gains + multiple properties + foreign income. ITR-3: Business/professional income. ITR-4: Presumptive business income. Most salaried employees use ITR-1.
Documents Needed
Form 16 from employer, Form 26AS (tax credit statement), AIS (Annual Information Statement), bank interest certificates, investment proofs (PPF, ELSS, insurance), home loan interest certificate, and Aadhaar linked to PAN.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Login to incometax.gov.in 2. Choose Assessment Year 3. Select ITR form 4. Fill income details from Form 16 5. Add deductions under 80C, 80D etc. 6. Verify tax computation 7. Submit and e-verify using Aadhaar OTP.
Common Mistakes
Not reporting all income sources (bank interest, capital gains). Choosing wrong ITR form. Not claiming all eligible deductions. Missing the deadline (July 31 for non-audit cases). Not e-verifying after submission — ITR is invalid without verification.