ITR deadline today: Last-minute FAQs before filing your income tax return

July 31, the deadline for filing income tax returns (ITRs) for many individual taxpayers is here. If you are among those still completing your return, a few last-minute checks can help you avoid common mistakes that may lead to delays, mismatches or the need to file a revised return later.

From filing a belated return to dealing with AIS mismatches, missed deductions and refund delays, here are answers to some common questions taxpayers may have before hitting the submit button.

What is the deadline for filing ITR-1 and ITR-2?

Has the income tax ITR filing deadline been extended this year?

Can I file my ITR after July 31?

Yes, you can still file your return after the deadline applicable to you, but it will be treated as a belated return and may attract a late filing fee and other consequences under the Income Tax Act.

Will I have to pay a late filing fee?

If you miss the applicable deadline, a late filing fee may apply. The fee is:

• ₹1,000 if the total income is up to ₹5 lakh.

• ₹5,000 if the total income exceeds ₹5 lakh.

Can I claim deductions I missed while filing my ITR?

If you missed claiming an eligible deduction while filing your original return, you may be able to correct it by filing a revised return, provided you meet the conditions and timeline allowed under tax rules.

For example, if you forgot to claim eligible deductions under sections such as 80C or 80D, you can review your return and make corrections through the revision process.

What happens if there is a mismatch between AIS and my ITR?

A mismatch between your Annual Information Statement (AIS) and your ITR does not always mean there is an error in your return. However, it should be reviewed before filing.

If you find incorrect information in AIS, you can submit feedback against the relevant transaction through the income tax e-filing portal.

The Income Tax Department allows taxpayers to provide feedback on transactions where they disagree with the information displayed. The feedback is then taken up for confirmation, and the status is updated in AIS.

Should I wait if my Form 16 has errors?

If you notice an error in Form 16, do not ignore it. First, check the details with your employer and request corrections if needed.

Form 16 includes salary income and TDS details reported by your employer. Any difference between Form 16, Form 26AS and AIS should be reviewed before submitting your return.

If a correction is not possible immediately, use available records and supporting documents to ensure your return contains accurate information.

Can I revise my ITR after filing?

Yes, you can revise your return if you find a mistake after filing the original ITR.

A revised return can help correct errors such as missed income, incorrect deductions, wrong tax calculations or missing information.

However, a revised return must be filed within the time limit prescribed under the Income Tax Act.

How long does it take to get an income tax refund?

Refund timelines vary depending on how quickly the return is processed and whether any additional checks are required.

Is e-verification mandatory after filing an ITR?

Yes. Filing your return is not complete until it is e-verified.

After submitting the ITR, taxpayers need to complete verification within the prescribed timeline. If the return is not verified, it may be treated as invalid.

What should I do if the income tax portal is slow?

The income tax portal may experience heavy traffic close to the deadline. If you face technical issues, try basic steps such as refreshing the page, clearing browser cache, using an updated browser or attempting to file during less busy hours.

The best approach is not to wait until the final hours. Once your return is filed, remember to complete e-verification to finish the process.