TDS Returns Filing: Complete Guide to Forms 24Q, 26Q & 27Q
Introduction
Filing TDS returns is one of the most critical responsibilities of a deductor. Even if TDS is deducted and paid on time, non-filing or incorrect filing of TDS returns can result in late fees, penalties, and notices from the Income Tax Department.
This blog provides a clear and practical explanation of TDS return filing, covering:
- Types of TDS returns (24Q, 26Q, 27Q)
- Quarter-wise due dates
- Information required for filing returns
- Common filing mistakes
- Revised TDS returns
This module is essential for students, accountants, professionals, and businesses handling TDS compliance.
What is a TDS Return?
A TDS return is a quarterly statement submitted by the deductor to the Income Tax Department, detailing:
- TDS deducted
- TDS paid to the government
- Deductee-wise breakup of payments and tax
TDS returns ensure that TDS credit correctly reflects in the deductee’s Form 26AS and AIS.
Types of TDS Returns
Different TDS returns are prescribed based on the nature of payment.
Form 24Q – Salary Payments
- Applicable for TDS deducted on salary income
- Filed by employers
Contains:
- Employee-wise salary details
- Deductions claimed
- Tax deducted and deposited
Form 26Q – Non-Salary Payments
- Applicable for TDS on payments other than salary
- Covers sections like 194C, 194J, 194H, 194I, etc.
- Filed by deductors making payments to residents
Form 27Q – Payments to Non-Residents
- Applicable for TDS deducted on payments made to non-residents and foreign companies
Requires additional details like:
- Country of residence
- Tax identification number
- DTAA applicability
Quarter-wise Due Dates for TDS Returns
TDS returns must be filed quarterly as per prescribed timelines.
| Quarter | Period Covered | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | April – June | 31st July |
| Q2 | July – September | 31st October |
| Q3 | October – December | 31st January |
| Q4 | January – March | 31st May |
Delay beyond these due dates attracts late fees and penalties.
Details Required for Filing TDS Returns
Accurate data collection is crucial before filing the return.
Deductor Details
- TAN
- PAN
- Name and address
- Contact details
Deductee Details
- PAN of deductee
- Name of deductee
- Payment amount
- TDS deducted
Challan Details
- Challan ITNS 281 details
- BSR code
- Challan serial number
- Date and amount of payment
Mismatch in any of the above details leads to return rejection or defaults.
Common Errors in TDS Return Filing
Some frequently observed mistakes include:
- Incorrect or invalid PAN of deductee
- Wrong challan details
- Section mismatch
- Short deduction or short payment
- Non-reporting of interest or late fee
- Duplicate entries
Such errors result in:
- Processing defaults
- Demand notices
- Delay in issuing Form 16 / 16A
Revised TDS Returns
If errors are discovered after filing, the deductor can file a Revised TDS Return.
When is Revision Required?
- Incorrect PAN or challan details
- Wrong section or amount
- Missing deductee entries
- Correction of interest or late fee
Important Points
- Revision can be filed multiple times
- Corrected return replaces the earlier return
- Proper validation and submission are mandatory
Timely revision helps avoid penalties and ensures accurate credit to deductees.
Practical Compliance Points
- Always reconcile challans before filing the return
- Verify PAN of deductees carefully
- Do not delay revision once an error is identified
- File returns well before due dates to avoid last-minute issues
Proper TDS return filing ensures smooth compliance and trust with deductees.
Conclusion
TDS return filing is more than a statutory formality — it directly impacts deductee tax credit, departmental compliance status, and the deductor’s credibility. Understanding the correct return type, adhering to due dates, ensuring accurate data entry, and promptly filing revised returns are essential for error-free TDS compliance.
A systematic and timely approach to TDS returns minimizes defaults, penalties, and unnecessary departmental notices.
Need Professional Help with TDS Returns?
TDS return filing and revision require technical accuracy and regular monitoring.
Verotus Finlegal Solutions LLP offers complete support for:
- Filing Forms 24Q, 26Q and 27Q
- TDS reconciliation and default resolution
- Revised TDS returns and corrections
- End-to-end TDS compliance management
📞 Contact Verotus Finlegal Solutions LLP
for reliable, compliant, and stress-free TDS return filing.
