Filing your income tax return (ITR) doesn’t have to be a headache. It’s actually easier than you might think! If you’re a salaried employee in India, you can totally file your ITR online without needing to hire a Chartered Accountant (CA).
With the tax filing deadline – July 31, 2025 – fast approaching, everyone’s looking for the quickest and easiest way to get it done. For straightforward cases like yours, handling your own ITR filing saves money on CA fees.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to filing your ITR online using the Income Tax Department’s official website: www.incometax.gov.in.
Ready to File? Here’s How to Do It Yourself:
1. Gather Your Documents:
- Form 16 from your employer
- Your PAN and Aadhaar card
- Your bank account details and passbook
- Your salary slips
- Details about any tax-saving investments you’ve made
- Interest certificates from your bank or post office
- Form 26AS (Tax Credit Statement)
2. Head to the Income Tax Portal:
- Go to incometax.gov.in and log in using your PAN as your user ID and your password. If you’re new to the site, you’ll need to register first.
3. Find the ‘e-File’ Section:
- Click on ‘e-File’ and then ‘Income Tax Return.’
- Pick the correct assessment year (2025-26) and the right ITR form. Most salaried people can use ITR-1 (Sahaj) – it’s the simplest one for ITR filing.
4. Choose the Online Option:
- Select the “online” option. This lets you fill out and submit your return directly on the website.
5. Fill in the Blanks:
- A lot of the information will already be filled in for you using your PAN, Form 16, and AIS. Double-check these pre-filled details, including:
- Your personal information
- Your salary income
- Any deductions you’re claiming (like 80C, 80D, etc.)
- The tax that’s already been paid or deducted
6. Double-Check with Form 26AS and AIS:
- Make sure the tax credits and income details match what’s on your Form 26AS and Annual Information Statement (AIS). Accuracy is crucial for successful ITR filing.
7. Pay Up (If Needed):
- If you owe any additional tax, pay it using the “e-Pay Tax” service. This will generate a Challan 280. Make sure to note down the BSR code and payment details.
8. Submit and Verify:
- Once you’re sure everything is correct, hit ‘Submit.’ Then, verify your ITR using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or a digital signature and complete the ITR filing process.
Why File on Your Own?
- You’ll save money on professional fees.
- You’ll learn more about your own finances through the ITR filing procedure.
- It’s safe and secure through the official government portal.
- It’s perfect for salaried folks with simple income situations.
Don’t Forget!
The deadline to file your ITR is July 31, 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute! File early to avoid any late fees associated with ITR filing.
