Things to do before, during and after filing tax returns
Tomorrow is the last date to file income tax returns for the past years, including 2015-16 and 2016-17. The easiest way to do this is online. You can file your returns at www.incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in. But there are some things you must take care of before, during and after filing your returns so that the processing happens smoothly.
Ensure these before starting on your returns filing
Before filing returns, you have to register yourself on the income tax portal at www.incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in. Going by the current guidelines, it is advisable to link your PAN to Aadhaar. This you can do on the portal. However, the deadline is till June 30. Individuals who earn up to Rs. 50L from salaries, properties and other sources (including interest) should fill the ITR-1.
During filing of returns
While filing, make sure that the income, deductions and other details mentioned in your returns match those given in the Form 16/16A. If there's any discrepancy, it will cause a delay in the processing of your returns or increased tax liability.
After you are done with the filing
After filing, you have to e-verify your return either physically or online. For the former, you can send the ITR-V to the Centralised Processing Centre (CPC) in Bengaluru. For online, you can use bank ATM, net-banking, Aadhaar, bank account or demat account. After your filing is approved, refunds, if any, will be credited directly to your bank account.
Contact any of these sources for help
If you need any assistance, help is at hand. You can contact any of the 300 e-return intermediaries listed on the e-filing portal. Otherwise, you can talk to experts on 1800 1023 738 anytime between 9am and 6pm from Monday to Saturday. But most of your details should be answered on the portal itself. Click on 'Help' at the right-top corner for detailed explanations.
