How to File Your Income Tax Return Online for FY 2023-24 (AY 2024-25) and Required Necessary Documents

How to File Your Income Tax Return Online for FY 2023-24 (AY 2024-25)

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) online can seem challenging, but it's straightforward once you know the steps. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to lead you through the process.

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) online

 Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

Before you start, collect all the necessary documents and information:

1. Identification Documents:

    PAN (Permanent Account Number)

    Aadhaar Number

2. Financial Documents:

    Bank statements

    Form 16 (for salaried individuals)

    Donation receipts

    Stock trading statements from your broker

    Insurance policy receipts (for life and health insurance)

    Interest certificates from banks

    Details of Fixed Deposits (FD), mutual funds, and SIPs

    Loan interest certificates

    House rental details

    Annual Information Statement (AIS) report

    TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) certificates

3. Business Documents (if applicable):

    Business balance sheet

    Profit and loss account

    Capital accounts

 Step 2: Visit the Income Tax E Filing Portal

Go to the [Income Tax e Filing Portal](https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal).

 Step 3: Log In or Register

1. Existing Users:

    Log in using your PAN, Aadhaar, or other login credentials.

2. New Users:

   Click the 'Register' button and follow the guidelines to create your account.

 Step 4: Download Form 26AS

1. Go to ‘My Account’ > ‘View Form 26AS (Tax Credit)’.

2. Download Form 26AS to check your tax credits. This form shows details of tax deducted at source (TDS), advance tax paid, and self assessment tax paid.

 Step 5: Choose the Right ITR Form

Choose the proper ITR form according to the types of income you have:

 ITR1 (Sahaj): For individuals with income from salary, one house property, other sources (interest, etc.), and having total income up to ₹50 lakh.

 ITR2: For individuals and HUFs not earning income from business or professional work.

ITR3: For individuals and HUFs earning income from a proprietary business or professional work.

 ITR4 (Sugam): For individuals, HUFs, and firms (other than LLP) having income from a business or profession computed under sections 44AD, 44ADA, or 44AE.

 Step 6: Fill in the Details

1. Go to ‘e File’ > ‘Income Tax Return’ and select the assessment year as 202425.

2. Choose the mode of filing (online or offline) and continue.

3. Fill in all required details, including:

    Personal information (name, address, etc.)

    Income details from various sources

    Deductions and exemptions claimed

 Step 7: Verify Your Details

Recheck all the details you have inputted to guarantee they are accurate.

Compare your income and deductions with the documents you collected in Step 1.

 Step 8: Claim Deductions and Exemptions

1. Enter details of deductions under various sections like 80C, 80D, etc.

2. Include details of donations, insurance premiums, and investments.

 Step 9: Calculate Tax and Pay Any Balance Due

1. The system will automatically calculate your tax liability.

2. Pay any balance tax due using net banking or through challans.

 Step 10: Preview and Submit

1. Preview the entire return to ensure all details are correct.

2. Click on ‘Submit’ to file your return.

 Step 11: E Verify Your Return

After submitting, e verify your return using one of the following methods:

 Aadhaar OTP: Receive a onetime password on your Aadhaar registered mobile number.

 Net Banking: Log in to your net banking account and e verify through the e filing portal.

 EVC (Electronic Verification Code): Generate EVC through your bank account, Demat account, or pre validated bank ATM.

 ITRV: If you cannot e verify, send a signed physical copy of ITRV to the Centralized Processing Center (CPC) in Bangalore within 120 days of filing.


 Common Public Questions and FAQs

 1. Who needs to file an Income Tax Return?

    Anyone whose total income exceeds the basic exemption limit (₹3 lakh for individuals below 60 years) needs to file an ITR. Additionally, owning foreign assets or receiving income from property held under a trust also requires filing.

 2. What is Form 16?

    Form 16 is a certificate issued by an employer that shows the TDS deducted from an employee’s salary. It includes detailed information about the salary paid and taxes deducted during the financial year.

 3. What are the due dates for filing ITR for FY 202324 (AY 202425)?

    For individuals and HUFs (not requiring audit): July 31, 2024.

   For audited businesses: October 31, 2024.

 4. What if I miss the ITR filing deadline?

    If you miss the deadline, you can still file a belated return by December 31, 2024, with a late fee. However, it’s advisable to file on time to avoid penalties and interest.

 5. How can I correct mistakes in my filed ITR?

    If you notice mistakes after filing, you can file a revised return before the end of the relevant assessment year or before the completion of the assessment, whichever is earlier.

 6. What is e-Verification, and why is it necessary?

    E-Verification confirms the authenticity of the ITR filed. It’s mandatory for the processing of your return. You can e-verify using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, EVC, or by sending a signed physical copy of ITRV to CPC.

 7. What is Form 26AS?

    Form 26AS is an annual statement that contains details of tax credited against your PAN. It shows TDS, advance tax paid, and self assessment tax paid, ensuring all your tax payments are correctly accounted for.

 8. What are deductions under Section 80C?

    Section 80C allows deductions for investments in specified financial instruments such as PPF, EPF, life insurance premiums, and tuition fees, up to ₹1.5 lakh.

 9. Can I claim HRA and home loan interest both?

    Yes, you can claim both House Rent Allowance (HRA) and home loan interest deduction, provided you meet the necessary conditions. HRA is for rented accommodation, while home loan interest is for a self owned property.

 10. How to claim deductions for donations?

    Donations to specified funds and charitable institutions can be claimed under Section 80G. Ensure you have the donation receipts and check if the institution is eligible for 100% or 50% deduction.


Filing your Income Tax Return is an important financial responsibility. By understanding the process and having the necessary documents ready, you can ensure a smooth and accurate filing experience. The FAQs section aims to address common queries, helping you navigate any uncertainties. If you have specific questions or need personalized assistance, consider consulting a tax professional.

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Sachin Chopade
I am a Finance and Tax Analyst, Content Creator, sharing valuable articles and calculators related to Finance, Accounting and Banking industry.