Still waiting for your ITR refund? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. With the September 15th deadline for non-audit taxpayers fast approaching, the volume of filings has been exceptionally high, causing delays for many. While most refunds are processed within a few weeks, some are taking longer due to additional checks.
Why Your Refund Might Be Delayed:
- Data Mismatches: A common reason is a mismatch between your filed return and the data on your Form 26AS.
- Pending E-verification: Your ITR processing won’t start until it’s e-verified. This is a critical step.
- Bank Account Issues: An un-validated or unlinked bank account can halt the refund process.
- Additional Scrutiny: Some returns are randomly selected for risk-based checks, which can add to the processing time.
What to Do Now:
- Check E-verification Status: Log in to the e-filing portal to confirm your ITR has been e-verified.
- Verify Processing Status: Ensure the tax department has processed your return. Refunds are initiated only after this step.
- Confirm Bank Account Validation: Make sure your bank account is pre-validated and linked to your PAN.
- Track Your Status: Use the ‘Refund/Demand Status’ section on the income tax portal to monitor your refund’s progress.
- Respond to Notices: If you receive any communication from the department, respond promptly to resolve any discrepancies.
While refund delays can be frustrating, they are usually procedural and get resolved.
Key Filing Deadlines for 2025:
- September 15: Non-audit taxpayers (salaried individuals, pensioners, NRIs).
- October 31: Businesses and professionals requiring a tax audit.
- November 30: Taxpayers with international or specified domestic transactions requiring a transfer pricing report.