The deadline for filing Income Tax Return is fast approaching and many taxpayers across India must still be rushing to file their ITR for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26). While the e-filing system has simplified tax submissions, last-minute filings often lead to errors. These errors can result in penalties, delayed refunds or in some cases, even legal notices from the I-T Department. Therefore, knowing the common mistakes and how to avoid them is crucial.

Common ITR filing mistakes to avoid

  • Selecting the correct ITR form is essential. Salaried employees, self-employed professionals and business owners have different forms. The Income Tax Department sometimes issues revised or updated ITR forms and filing the wrong one can trigger defect notices. Ensure you know your taxpayer category and select the correct form
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  • Many taxpayers miss income from fixed deposits, capital gains, freelance work or business earnings. Since income is linked to your PAN, omissions can trigger Income Tax scrutiny. Always report every income source accurately
  • Salaried employees should reconcile Form 16 and Form 26AS, which reflects TDS deductions from all sources. Discrepancies can lead to incorrect tax filings, so carefully review both forms before submission
  • Completing your ITR is not enough, you must e-verify your ITR. Options include Aadhaar OTP, net banking or Demat account verification or sending a signed copy of the acknowledgement to CPC Bangalore. Remember, returns not e-verified within 120 days are considered invalid

How to rectify ITR filing mistakes?

It is important to remain careful while filing returns but mistakes may still happen. Do not fret; you can rectify ITR filling mistakes after submission. Under Section 154 of the Income Tax Act, taxpayers can file a rectification request to correct factual errors, calculation mistakes, clerical errors or missing legal provisions.

Rectifications can address mismatched tax credits, advance tax discrepancies or incomplete income reporting.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information, current Income Tax Department guidelines, and expert insights. Common mistakes highlighted—such as selecting the wrong ITR form, not reporting all income sources, mismatches with AIS/Form 26AS, incorrect deductions, or failure to e-verify—are among the key reasons for delays, defective returns, or notices.

Even small errors in personal details, income reporting, or bank information can lead to rejection of returns or delay in refunds, as tax filings are now closely matched with data from multiple sources. The corrective steps mentioned are indicative and depend on individual cases and applicable provisions under the Income-tax Act.

Readers are advised to cross-check details with official documents such as Form 16, AIS, and Form 26AS, follow official Income Tax Department guidance, and consult qualified tax professionals before taking any action. The publication does not take responsibility for any decisions taken based on this information.