Frequently asked questions
Common questions about filing your income tax return in India, from choosing a form to verifying it.
Who can file ITR-1 (Sahaj)?
ITR-1 is meant for resident individuals with straightforward income, typically salary or pension, one house property and modest interest income, up to an income limit. It is not for those with capital gains, business income, foreign assets or more than one house property, who need a different form. Picking the right form matters because the wrong one can make your return defective.
What is the difference between the old and new tax regime?
The new regime is the default and offers lower slab rates but removes most deductions and exemptions. The old regime keeps those deductions, such as for certain investments and insurance, but applies higher rates. Which one saves you more depends on how much you can legitimately claim, so compare both before you file.
What documents do I need before filing my ITR?
If you are salaried, keep your Form 16 ready, along with your Annual Information Statement and Form 26AS from the tax portal, which show income and tax already deducted. Add bank interest certificates, proof of any deductions you plan to claim, and details of capital gains, rent or other income. Gathering these first makes the return quicker and reduces mismatches.
What is Form 16 and how is it different from the AIS?
Form 16 is the certificate your employer gives you showing salary paid and tax deducted at source during the year. The Annual Information Statement is a wider record kept by the tax department covering many kinds of income and transactions linked to your PAN. You use both so that what you report matches what has already been reported about you.
How do I e-verify my income tax return?
A filed return is not treated as complete until it is verified, and the simplest way is online within the allowed window. You can e-verify using an Aadhaar-based OTP, net banking or a Digital Signature Certificate. Taxpayers whose accounts must be audited, and companies, generally verify using a DSC.