ITR Filing 2025: 5 Important Things to Do Before Filing Online

Filing an Income Tax Return (ITR) is necessary for all taxpayers who fall under the taxable income category. As the new assessment year 2025-26 begins, salaried individuals and other taxpayers can start filing their returns for the previous financial year. Like previous years, the deadline for ITR filing is expected to be 31st July 2025. However, taxpayers requiring an audit have time until 31st October 2025. In exceptional cases, the government may extend these deadlines.

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Who Needs to File an ITR?

Individuals must file an ITR if their annual income exceeds the basic exemption limit.

• Old Tax Regime:
  • For individuals below 60 years: ₹2.5 lakh
  • For senior citizens (60+ years): ₹3 lakh
• New Tax Regime:
  • The basic exemption limit is ₹4 lakh.

Even if a person’s income is below these limits, they must file an ITR in certain cases, such as:

• If they have a savings account balance above ₹50 lakh.
• If total bank deposits exceed ₹1 crore.

New Tax Slabs Under the New Tax Regime (FY 2025-26)

Note: No changes were announced in the Old Tax Regime tax slabs in the latest Union Budget.

5 Must-Do Things Before Filing ITR Online

1. Gather All Income-Related Documents

Before filing your ITR, collect all necessary documents, such as:

• PAN and Aadhaar
• Form 16 (for salaried individuals)
• Salary slips
• Bank interest certificates
• Capital gains statements
• Rental income records

2. Choose the Correct ITR Form

Selecting the right ITR form based on your income source and residential status is crucial. Filing an incorrect form may result in rejection or even an income tax notice. This year, the government has made changes to ITR-2, so taxpayers should carefully review the latest updates before filing.

3. Link PAN with Aadhaar & Verify Personal Details

Make sure your PAN is linked with Aadhaar, as this is mandatory for e-verification. Also, check that your name, date of birth, and gender match across all official documents to avoid issues.

4. Check for Available Exemptions and Deductions

Before filing, understand the deductions and exemptions you are eligible for:

• Basic exemption limit (as per the selected tax regime)
• Standard Deduction: ₹50,000 (Old Regime) | ₹75,000 (New Regime)
• Other rebates and tax-saving investments

5. Be Aware of Enhanced I-T Scrutiny

The Finance Bill 2025 allows the Income Tax Department to compare current-year tax returns with previous years to check for discrepancies. This move aims to improve tax compliance and curb tax evasion.

How to File ITR Online?

Follow these steps to file your ITR online:

• Step 1: Visit the official Income Tax e-filing portal.
• Step 2: Log in or register on the website.
• Step 3: Enter your PAN and required details.
• Step 4: Select your filing mode and tax status.
• Step 5: Choose the correct ITR form.
• Step 6: Read all instructions carefully and fill in the required details.
• Step 7: Review and confirm all information before clicking “Proceed”.
• Step 8: Validate the form and submit your ITR online.

Once submitted, ensure you verify the ITR within 30 days, either electronically or by sending a signed copy to the Income Tax Department.

By following these steps, you can file your ITR smoothly and avoid any penalties! 

Conclusion

Filing your ITR correctly ensures hassle-free compliance and avoids penalties. Stay updated on tax changes, review details carefully, and file on time for a smooth process! 

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Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.