The last day for filing the tax return (ITR File) has arrived. Those who have not yet filed their return are advised to complete this process immediately. The tax department continuously issues warnings (Income Tax ITR Alert) and reports that as of July 30th, 5.5 crore people have already filed their ITRs.
If you are filling out your ITR at the last minute, do not rush and perform this task very carefully. Since some common and simple mistakes when filling out the ITR can result in significant losses, it is crucial to meticulously verify all income, deductions, tax credits, and disclosures.
Information contained only in Form-16 is insufficient for filing an ITR; much more data is required. Employees usually rely on Form-16 when filling out the ITR, but it only provides details about salary income and TDS. This form does not reflect information on savings account interest, ADFI interest, dividends, and other receipts. Therefore, in addition to Form-16, you should review documents such as TIS, bank statements, capital gains reports, and investment-related documents.
When rushing to file the ITR, do not forget to provide accurate information on certain important elements. These include bonuses, unpaid salary, advance salary, welcome bonuses, retention bonuses, gratuity, VRS compensation, or pension payments. Accurate details must be provided regarding the taxes applicable to these receipts.
When filling out the ITR, it is critically important to choose the correct tax regime. Taxpayers often select a regime without comparing the old and new tax systems. Although the new tax system offers preferential rates, it limits the availability of many exemptions and deductions available under the old regime. Such exemptions include HRA exemption, LTA exemption, deduction for home loan interest, as well as benefits under sections 80C, 80D, and 80CCD(1B). Consequently, employees should choose between the new and old tax regimes after conducting a comparison.
Disclosure of foreign assets and foreign income is mandatory when filing a tax return (ITR). This may include foreign bank accounts, foreign stocks, foreign ESOPs, pension accounts, financial interests in foreign entities, or signing authority in foreign accounts. Strict measures are prescribed for non-disclosure of foreign assets and income. According to Sections 42 and 43 of the Black Money Act, 2015, a huge fine may be imposed.
Filing the tax return is only half the battle; timely verification is also necessary. It must be completed within the stipulated time through verification via OTP Aadhaar, internet banking, brokerage account, or bank account, or by sending ITR-V, if applicable. If the return is not verified on time, it may be deemed invalid.



