The deadline for filing the income tax return (ITR) by taxpayers under the no-audit category for AY 2025-26 ended on September 16, 2025. According to the latest data updated as of 22 September, around 7.58 crore returns have been filed, and 6.86 crore have been verified. However, only 5.01 crore ITRs have been processed so far, which means around 1.86 crore returns are still pending for refund processing.
Meanwhile, taxpayers awaiting their refunds are taking to social media to complain about long delays in refunds. There are frequent complaints from netizens who have not received their refunds even after more than 3 months.
One user wrote on social media platform ‘X’, stating that he filed his ITR on 20th June and still awaiting his refunds.
Another user says he filed return for AY 2025-26 on 10th June and verified it on the same day but the ITR is yet to be processed.
Like these two, there are hundreds of complaints on social media against long delays in income tax return processing and refunds.
So, why is tax department taking so much time in processing these returns filed 2 to 3 months back? There could be multiple reasons behind this. But one of the reasons could be the complexity of ITR filings and the quantum of refund amount involved, according to taxation experts.
So this raises the question: Do smaller refunds really get processed faster than larger ones?
According to income tax rules, there is no upper limit on refunds and the process to credit refunds to taxpayers remains the same, irrespective of the tax refund amount. However, in specific cases where refunds are unusually higher for taxpayers compared to previous years, the department may initiate additional scrutiny, which usually creates a slight delay in processing.
Experts say that smaller and simpler refunds, such as those for taxpayers with only salary income and no complex deductions or other sources of income in their ITRs, receive them relatively quickly. This is because these returns require less scrutiny and review. Larger refunds, however, require additional scrutiny, as the department ensures that there are no false claims or errors. Therefore, delays in larger refunds are common.
ITR status this year (AY 2025-26)
This year, ITR processing is based on a fully automated system. The system immediately flags any unusual deductions or data mismatches. Large refund claims undergo additional scrutiny, say tax experts. Technical reasons, such as PAN-Aadhaar linking issues, errors in bank details, or portal glitches, can also cause delays, they add.
How to check refund status
First, log in to incometax.gov.in and ensure you have e-verified your ITR.
Then, select the “Refund Status” or “Know your Refund Status” option.
Enter your PAN and Assessment Year to see the status — such as “Refund Issued,” “Refund Under Processing,” or “Refund Failed.”
It’s also important to check that the bank details are correct. If there are any discrepancies, correct them. You can file a grievance if necessary.
How long does it typically take to receive a refund?
In simple cases, such as ITRs with only salary income and standard deductions, refunds are typically credited within 2 to 5 weeks, according to the tax department. In some cases, it can be even faster, taking just a few hours or days.
Why are there delays?
There can be many reasons for income tax refund delays. The most common are data mismatches, such as inconsistencies in Form 26AS, AIS, or TDS records. Errors in bank account, IFSC code, or name can also delay refunds.
Unlinking of PAN and Aadhaar is also a major reason. Large refunds or complex ITRs with significant deductions or multiple income sources require the department to conduct additional scrutiny.
Additionally, system verification, audits, and glitches on the portal can also cause refund delays.