🧾 Module 5: How to File Your ITR Online

📌 Table of Contents:

Introduction
Prerequisites Before Filing ITR
Step-by-Step Process to File ITR Online
Common Errors to Avoid
Post-Filing Actions
Conclusion
FAQs

✅ Introduction

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) may sound complicated, but with the Government of India offering an easy-to-use online portal, even beginners can file their returns with confidence.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the complete process of filing your ITR online for the Assessment Year 2024–25. Whether you’re salaried, self-employed, or a first-time taxpayer — this step-by-step guide will make your filing experience smooth and error-free.

📋 Prerequisites Before Filing ITR

Before starting the ITR filing process, keep the following documents and details ready:

PAN and Aadhaar Number
Form 16 (for salaried individuals)
Bank account details
TDS certificates (Form 16A, if any)
Capital gain statements (if applicable)
Interest income details (from bank, FD, etc.)
Details of deductions under Sections 80C, 80D, 80G, etc.
Login credentials for income tax portal

🖥️ Step-by-Step Process to File ITR Online

🔹 Step 1: Log in to the Income Tax Portal

Visit www.incometax.gov.in
Click on “Login”
Enter your User ID (PAN), password, and captcha code
Use OTP verification if prompted

🔹 Step 2: Select “File Income Tax Return”

After login, go to the Dashboard
Click on “e-File” > “Income Tax Return”
Choose the following:

Assessment Year: 2024–25
Mode of Filing: Online
ITR Form: Choose based on your income type (explained in Module 3)
Filing Type: Original/Revised Return
Status: Individual/HUF/etc.

🔹 Step 3: Pre-Filled Data Verification

The system automatically fetches some data (salary, TDS, interest, etc.) from your AIS and Form 26AS. You should:

✅ Verify personal details
✅ Cross-check income details with Form 16 or bank statements
✅ Modify/add any missing income or deduction data manually

🔹 Step 4: Enter Deduction Details

Go to the “Deductions” section and add eligible deductions:

Section 80C: LIC, PPF, ELSS, Tuition Fees
Section 80D: Medical Insurance
Section 80G: Donations
Section 24(b): Home loan interest (if applicable)

🔹 Step 5: Tax Calculation and Validation

The portal will auto-calculate your tax liability/refund
Verify the summary before submission
If tax is payable, pay it online using “e-Pay Tax” option before submission

🔹 Step 6: Submit ITR

Click on “Preview and Submit”
Review the form carefully
Submit the return

🔹 Step 7: E-Verification (Mandatory)

After submission, you must e-verify your return within 30 days.

Methods of e-Verification:

Aadhaar OTP (most convenient)
Net banking
Demat account
Bank ATM (offline)
Sending signed ITR-V to CPC, Bengaluru (if e-verification not possible)

💡 Tip: Use Aadhaar OTP for instant verification and faster processing.

⚠️ Common Errors to Avoid

🚫 Mismatching TDS with Form 26AS
🚫 Not declaring interest income
🚫 Skipping Aadhaar-PAN linking
🚫 Forgetting to e-verify
🚫 Claiming ineligible deductions

📤 Post-Filing Actions

✔️ Download and save the Acknowledgment (ITR-V)
✔️ Track your return status on the dashboard
✔️ Wait for the intimation under Section 143(1)
✔️ If refund due, ensure correct bank details are provided and validated

🧾 Conclusion

Filing ITR online is now easier than ever. By following this step-by-step guide, even first-time taxpayers can file their return accurately without needing professional help. However, if your income sources are complex, it’s always best to consult a tax advisor.

In our next module, we’ll help you understand TDS, Form 26AS, and Annual Information Statement (AIS)—essential tools to cross-check your tax data.

❓FAQs

1. What is the deadline to file ITR for AY 2024–25?
👉 July 31, 2025 (for individuals not requiring audit)

2. Can I file ITR without Form 16?
👉 Yes, as long as you have your salary breakup, income details, and TDS info.

3. How long does it take to get a refund after filing ITR?
👉 Usually 7–30 days after e-verification, if no discrepancies exist.

4. What happens if I don’t e-verify my return?
👉 Your return will be considered invalid, and it will be as if you never filed it.