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ITR Filing Last Date 2026: Complete Guide to Income Tax Return Filing Before 31 July | 200+ FAQs Answered

ITR Filing Last Date 2026 explained. Learn who should file, due dates, tax saving tips, refunds, penalties, and answers to 200+ Income Tax Return FAQs.
By CA (Dr.) Arpit Yadav July 21, 2026

https://www.twotax.in/blog-details/itr-filing-last-date-2026-why-you-must-file-your-income-tax-return-before-31-july

https://www.twotax.in/blog-details/what-happens-if-you-miss-the-itr-filing-deadline-of-31-july-

General ITR Filing Questions

1. What is an Income Tax Return (ITR)?

An Income Tax Return (ITR) is a form used by taxpayers to report their income, claim deductions, disclose taxes paid, and calculate their final tax liability or refund for a financial year.


2. What is the last date to file ITR for AY 2026–27?

For most individual taxpayers who are not required to get their accounts audited, the due date is 31 July 2026, unless extended by the Government.


3. Why is filing an ITR important?

Filing an ITR helps you comply with tax laws, claim refunds, carry forward eligible losses, establish proof of income, and support loan or visa applications.


4. What happens if I do not file my ITR?

You may face late filing fees, interest on unpaid taxes, delays in refunds, restrictions on carrying forward certain losses, and possible notices from the Income Tax Department.


5. Can I file my ITR after 31 July?

Yes, you may be able to file a belated return within the time permitted under the Income-tax Act, though certain consequences may apply.


6. Can I revise my ITR after filing it?

Yes, if you discover an error, you can generally file a revised return within the prescribed time limit.


7. Is filing ITR mandatory?

It depends on your income, financial transactions, and the conditions prescribed under the Income-tax Act.


8. Who should file an Income Tax Return?

Individuals whose income exceeds the applicable exemption limit or who satisfy specified filing conditions should file an ITR. Even where not mandatory, filing may still be beneficial.


9. Can I file my ITR myself?

Yes. Individuals can file their returns online through the Income Tax e-Filing Portal. However, professional assistance can help in complex cases.


10. How much time does it take to file an ITR?

For a taxpayer with all documents ready and straightforward income sources, the filing process may take less than an hour.


Eligibility Questions

11. Should salaried employees file an ITR?

Yes, if they meet the prescribed filing conditions.


12. Should freelancers file an ITR?

Yes. Freelancers and consultants are required to report their professional income as applicable.


13. Should business owners file an ITR?

Yes.


14. Do students need to file an ITR?

Students with taxable income or who meet specified filing conditions may need to file an ITR.


15. Should pensioners file an ITR?

Yes, if they satisfy the applicable filing requirements.


16. Should senior citizens file an ITR?

Yes, subject to the provisions and conditions applicable to them.


17. Do NRIs need to file ITR in India?

Depending on the nature of their income and applicable provisions, NRIs may be required to file an ITR in India.


18. Should homemakers file ITR?

If they have taxable income or meet specified conditions, they may need to file an ITR.


19. Is ITR required for minors?

In certain cases where income is taxable or reportable, provisions relating to minors may apply.


20. Can unemployed people file ITR?

Yes, if they have taxable income, wish to claim a refund, or choose to maintain a financial record.


Documents Required

21. What documents are required for filing an ITR?

Typically PAN, Aadhaar, Form 16 (if applicable), Form 26AS, AIS, TIS, bank statements, investment proofs, and other relevant financial records.


22. Is PAN mandatory for filing ITR?

Yes.


23. Is Aadhaar mandatory for filing ITR?

Aadhaar-related requirements apply as prescribed under the law.


24. What is Form 16?

Form 16 is a certificate issued by an employer showing salary paid and tax deducted at source.


25. What is Form 26AS?

Form 26AS is a consolidated statement showing taxes deducted, collected, and other tax-related information.


26. What is AIS?

The Annual Information Statement (AIS) contains a comprehensive view of your reported financial transactions.


27. What is TIS?

The Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS) provides a summarized view of information relevant to tax filing.


28. Should I check AIS before filing ITR?

Yes. Reviewing AIS helps identify any income or transactions that need to be reported accurately.


29. Can I file ITR without Form 16?

Yes. If you have all the necessary income and tax details, Form 16 is not the only basis for filing.


30. Can I file ITR without AIS?

You can file your return, but reviewing AIS is recommended to avoid discrepancies.


Refund Questions

31. How can I claim my income tax refund?

By filing your ITR and ensuring all information is accurate.


32. How long does an income tax refund take?

The timeline depends on the processing of the return by the Income Tax Department.


33. Why is my income tax refund delayed?

Possible reasons include incorrect bank details, pending verification, mismatches in information, or processing delays.


34. Can I track my income tax refund?

Yes, refund status can generally be tracked online.


35. Why is my refund less than expected?

Differences may arise due to adjustments made during processing or inaccuracies in the return.


Late Filing Questions

36. What is a belated return?

A belated return is an Income Tax Return filed after the original due date but within the time permitted by law.


37. What is a revised return?

A revised return is filed to correct mistakes in an already submitted ITR.


38. Can I revise a belated return?

Subject to the applicable provisions and timelines, a belated return may also be revised.


39. What happens if I never file my ITR?

Non-filing may result in penalties, interest, notices, and other consequences under the Income-tax Act.


40. Can I file ITR for previous years?

Only within the time limits and provisions permitted under the law.


Miscellaneous Questions

41. Which ITR form should I choose?

The correct ITR form depends on your sources of income, residential status, and other applicable factors.


42. What is e-verification?

It is the process of electronically verifying your filed Income Tax Return.


43. Is e-verification compulsory?

Yes, a filed return generally needs to be verified within the prescribed time.


44. How can I e-verify my ITR?

The Income Tax Department provides multiple verification methods, such as Aadhaar OTP and net banking, subject to availability.


45. What if I make a mistake while filing my ITR?

You may generally file a revised return within the prescribed time limit.


46. Can I file ITR from my mobile phone?

Yes, taxpayers can access the Income Tax e-Filing Portal using a mobile device.


47. Is there any fee for filing an ITR?

Filing through the Government portal does not involve a government filing charge, though professional service providers may charge a fee for their assistance.


48. Can I file ITR without a Chartered Accountant?

Yes. Many taxpayers file independently, while others prefer professional guidance for accuracy and convenience.


49. Why should I file my ITR early instead of waiting until the deadline?

Early filing gives you more time to review your information, avoid portal congestion, correct mistakes, and receive refunds sooner.


50. Should I take professional help for filing my ITR?

If your income includes multiple sources, business income, capital gains, foreign assets, or other complexities, professional assistance can help ensure accurate compliance.


Tax Regime FAQs

51. What is the difference between the old tax regime and the new tax regime?

The old tax regime allows taxpayers to claim various deductions and exemptions such as those for investments, insurance premiums, and home loan interest, while the new tax regime offers lower tax rates but limits the availability of many deductions and exemptions. The better option depends on your income structure, investments, and eligible deductions.


52. Which tax regime is better for salaried employees?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Salaried employees with significant eligible deductions may benefit from the old tax regime, whereas those with fewer deductions may find the new tax regime more advantageous. Comparing tax liability under both regimes before filing your Income Tax Return is advisable.


53. Can I switch between the old and new tax regime every year?

The ability to switch between tax regimes depends on the nature of your income and the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act. Salaried individuals generally have greater flexibility than taxpayers with business or professional income.


54. Which tax regime helps save more tax?

The regime that results in greater tax savings depends on factors such as your salary, investments, deductions, exemptions, and other sources of income. It is recommended to compare both options before making a choice.


55. How do I choose a tax regime while filing my ITR?

During the ITR filing process, taxpayers can select the applicable tax regime based on the rules governing their category of income. Ensure that your selection is consistent with any declarations made to your employer, where applicable.


56. Can I change my tax regime after filing my return?

The possibility of changing your selected tax regime after filing depends on the applicable legal provisions and timelines. Review the relevant rules before attempting to make changes.


57. Is the new tax regime compulsory?

No. The applicability of the new tax regime depends on the provisions in force and the taxpayer's circumstances. Eligible taxpayers may have the option to choose the regime that best suits them.


58. Can I claim deductions under the new tax regime?

The new tax regime generally restricts many common deductions and exemptions that are available under the old regime. However, certain benefits may still be available depending on the applicable provisions.


59. Can I claim Section 80C deductions under the new tax regime?

Most deductions under Section 80C are generally not available under the new tax regime. Taxpayers should review the current provisions before filing their return.


60. Which tax regime is suitable for senior citizens?

The choice depends on pension income, interest income, investments, and eligible deductions. Comparing both regimes can help determine the more beneficial option.


Salary Related FAQs

61. How do I file ITR if I changed jobs during the financial year?

If you changed employers during the year, collect Form 16 or equivalent salary details from each employer. Report your total salary income, verify TDS credits in Form 26AS and AIS, and ensure no income is omitted.


62. What should I do if I have two Form 16s?

Combine the salary details from both Form 16s and report the total income in your ITR. Also verify that the TDS deducted by both employers appears correctly in Form 26AS.


63. Can I file ITR without salary slips?

Yes. Salary slips are helpful but not mandatory if you have Form 16 and other supporting records. If Form 16 is unavailable, bank statements and salary credit details may assist in preparing your return.


64. Is bonus taxable?

Yes. A bonus received from your employer is generally treated as part of your salary income and should be reported while filing your Income Tax Return.


65. Is leave encashment taxable?

The tax treatment of leave encashment depends on whether it is received during employment or at retirement, as well as the applicable provisions and exemptions.


66. Is gratuity taxable?

Gratuity may be fully or partly exempt depending on the nature of employment, the amount received, and the relevant provisions of the Income-tax Act.


67. How do I report salary arrears in ITR?

Salary arrears should be included under salary income in the relevant financial year. Where applicable, taxpayers may explore relief provisions available under the Income-tax Act.


68. What is Form 12BA?

Form 12BA is a statement issued by employers showing the value of perquisites, benefits, or amenities provided to employees in addition to salary.


69. What are perquisites in salary?

Perquisites are non-cash benefits provided by an employer, such as accommodation, a company car, or other facilities. Depending on the nature of the benefit, they may form part of taxable salary.


70. What if my employer deducted less TDS?

If the TDS deducted is lower than your actual tax liability, you may need to pay the balance tax before filing your return to avoid interest and other consequences.


Interest Income FAQs

71. Is savings account interest taxable?

Yes. Interest earned on savings bank accounts is generally taxable, although eligible taxpayers may claim deductions under the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act.


72. Is fixed deposit (FD) interest taxable?

Yes. Interest earned on fixed deposits is generally taxable and should be reported in your Income Tax Return, regardless of whether TDS has been deducted.


73. Is recurring deposit (RD) interest taxable?

Yes. Interest earned on recurring deposits is generally taxable and must be disclosed while filing your ITR.


74. Do I need to report interest income if no TDS was deducted?

Yes. Taxability depends on the income earned, not on whether TDS has been deducted. All taxable interest income should be reported.


75. How do I show bank interest in my ITR?

Add the interest earned from savings accounts, fixed deposits, recurring deposits, and other bank accounts under the appropriate income head while filing your return.


76. What is Form 15G?

Form 15G is a declaration that may be submitted by eligible individuals requesting that tax not be deducted at source on certain incomes if specified conditions are satisfied.


77. What is Form 15H?

Form 15H is a declaration available to eligible senior citizens to request non-deduction of TDS on specified income, subject to the prescribed conditions.


78. Can senior citizens claim deductions on interest income?

Yes. Eligible senior citizens may claim deductions on specified interest income as permitted under the Income-tax Act, subject to applicable conditions.


79. Is post office interest taxable?

The tax treatment depends on the type of post office scheme and the applicable provisions. Taxpayers should review the rules relevant to their investment.


80. Is Public Provident Fund (PPF) interest taxable?

Interest earned on Public Provident Fund (PPF) accounts is generally exempt from tax under the prevailing provisions.


Capital Gains FAQs

81. Do I need to report share trading income in ITR?

Yes. Income from the sale or trading of shares should be reported under the appropriate head of income, depending on the nature of the transactions.


82. How are mutual fund gains taxed?

The tax treatment of mutual fund gains depends on the type of fund, the holding period, and the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act.


83. Is SIP taxable?

Investing through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is not taxable by itself. Tax implications generally arise when units are redeemed or sold.


84. How do I report capital gains in my ITR?

Capital gains should be calculated using the applicable rules and disclosed under the capital gains schedule in the relevant ITR form.


85. What is a short-term capital gain?

A short-term capital gain arises when a capital asset is transferred within the prescribed holding period specified for that asset.


86. What is a long-term capital gain?

A long-term capital gain arises when a capital asset is held for more than the specified holding period before being transferred.


87. Is cryptocurrency income taxable?

Income arising from virtual digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, is subject to taxation as per the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act.


88. How do I report cryptocurrency transactions in ITR?

Taxpayers should disclose cryptocurrency transactions in the relevant schedules of the applicable ITR form and report income in accordance with the law.


89. Do I need to report foreign shares in my ITR?

If you hold or derive income from foreign shares, reporting requirements may apply depending on your residential status and the provisions of the Income-tax Act.


90. How do I calculate capital gains?

Capital gains are generally calculated by deducting the cost of acquisition, cost of improvement (where applicable), and eligible transfer expenses from the sale consideration, subject to the relevant tax provisions.


Additional  FAQs

91. What is the difference between salary income and business income?

Salary income arises from an employer-employee relationship, while business or professional income is earned through independent business or professional activities.


92. Can I have salary income and business income in the same ITR?

Yes. If you earn income from both employment and business or profession, both must be reported under the respective heads of income in your ITR.


93. Can I claim deductions for education loan interest?

Eligible taxpayers may claim deductions for interest paid on education loans subject to the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act.


94. Is dividend income taxable?

Yes. Dividend income is generally taxable and should be reported in the Income Tax Return under the appropriate head.


95. Should I disclose exempt income in my ITR?

Yes. Certain exempt incomes may still need to be disclosed in the appropriate schedules of the ITR form.


96. Can I file ITR if I earned income from freelancing along with salary?

Yes. Both salary income and freelance income should be reported under their respective heads while filing your Income Tax Return.


97. What is self-assessment tax?

Self-assessment tax is the tax paid by a taxpayer before filing the ITR when the taxes already paid through TDS, TCS, or advance tax are insufficient to cover the total liability.


98. Can I pay tax while filing my ITR?

Yes. If additional tax is payable after computing your total liability, it should generally be paid before submitting your Income Tax Return.


99. What is advance tax?

Advance tax is the payment of income tax in instalments during the financial year instead of paying the entire amount at the time of filing the return, where applicable.


100. Why should I consult a Chartered Accountant before filing my ITR?

 

A Chartered Accountant can help ensure accurate reporting of income, selection of the correct ITR form, optimal claim of eligible deductions, review of AIS and Form 26AS, and compliance with applicable tax provisions. Professional guidance is especially valuable for taxpayers with business income, capital gains, foreign assets, multiple income sources, or complex tax situations.


 

Home Loan & House Property FAQs

101. Can I claim a deduction for home loan interest while filing my ITR?

Yes. Eligible taxpayers can claim a deduction for home loan interest subject to the conditions and limits prescribed under the Income-tax Act. Ensure you have the annual interest certificate issued by your lender before filing your return.


102. Can I claim a deduction for the principal repayment of my home loan?

Principal repayment may qualify for deduction under the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act, subject to prescribed conditions and limits. Keep repayment proof for your records.


103. Can I claim both HRA and home loan benefits together?

Yes, provided you satisfy the applicable conditions. For example, if you live in rented accommodation while repaying a home loan for another property, both benefits may be available depending on your circumstances.


104. Can I claim tax benefits on an under-construction property?

The availability of tax benefits depends on the stage of construction and the relevant provisions of the Income-tax Act. Tax treatment differs before and after possession.


105. Can joint owners claim home loan deductions?

Yes. If both co-owners are also co-borrowers and contribute towards repayment, each may claim eligible deductions separately, subject to the prescribed limits.


106. Is stamp duty eligible for tax deduction?

Stamp duty and registration charges may qualify for deduction under specified provisions, subject to conditions and overall limits.


107. Which documents are required to claim a home loan deduction?

Typically, you'll need:

  • Home loan interest certificate
  • Loan repayment statement
  • Possession letter (where applicable)
  • Ownership documents
  • Loan sanction letter (if required)

108. Can I claim tax benefits on two home loans?

Yes. Depending on your circumstances and the applicable tax provisions, deductions may be available for more than one home loan.


109. Can I claim deductions for a second house property?

Yes. The tax treatment depends on whether the property is self-occupied, let out, or deemed to be let out, along with the applicable provisions.


110. What if I sell my house during the financial year?

You may need to report the sale in your ITR and calculate any capital gains or losses arising from the transaction. Supporting documents should be retained for future reference.


Rental Income FAQs

111. Is rental income taxable?

Yes. Income earned from renting out a property is generally taxable under the head "Income from House Property."


112. How do I calculate income from house property?

Income is generally computed after considering factors such as gross annual value, municipal taxes paid, and eligible deductions under the Income-tax Act.


113. Can I claim municipal taxes as a deduction?

Yes. Municipal taxes paid by the owner during the relevant financial year may be deductible while computing income from house property, subject to the applicable provisions.


114. Are maintenance charges deductible?

The tax treatment of maintenance charges depends on the facts of the case and the applicable tax provisions.


115. Is the security deposit received from a tenant taxable?

A refundable security deposit is generally not treated as taxable income merely because it is received. However, any amount adjusted or retained may have tax implications.


116. What if my rented property remained vacant during the year?

Vacancy can affect the computation of taxable income from house property. The applicable treatment depends on the relevant provisions of the Income-tax Act.


117. How do I report rental income in my ITR?

Rental income should be reported under the schedule relating to "Income from House Property" in the applicable ITR form.


118. Can I claim home loan interest on a rented property?

Yes. Subject to the applicable provisions, interest on a home loan for a let-out property may be considered while computing taxable income.


119. Is rent from commercial property taxable?

Yes. Rental income from commercial property is generally taxable under the relevant head of income.


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