Filed Your ITR Before the Deadline? Your Refund Could Still Be Delayed

The deadline to file your income tax return (ITR) for AY 2024-25 was July 31, 2024. While submitting your ITR on time is crucial, it does not automatically ensure that your tax refund will be processed promptly. If you find that your refund is delayed, you may need to request a re-issue.

Understanding the Refund Process

Filing your ITR is just the initial step in the refund process. After your ITR is filed and verified, the tax department will process it and issue a Section 143(1) intimation. This notice confirms that your ITR has been processed and details your tax calculation. If you are entitled to a refund, it will be mentioned along with any applicable interest.

Typically, refunds are issued within 4-5 weeks of processing. However, various issues can cause delays, such as errors in the information provided or problems within the tax department.

Steps to Take If Your Refund Is Delayed

If your refund does not arrive within the expected timeframe, you should first verify if there are any issues on your end. Common issues that could delay your refund include:

  • Incorrect Bank Details: Ensure that the account number, MICR Code, IFSC Code, or account holder's name are correct.
  • Unvalidated Bank Account: The bank account must be pre-validated on the e-Filing portal.
  • Pending KYC: Ensure that your bank account KYC is up-to-date.
  • Incorrect Account Type or Description: Verify the details of the account type and description.

How to Request a Refund Re-Issue

If you encounter issues such as incorrect bank details or a failure to receive the refund due to technical problems, you may need to request a refund re-issue. Here’s how:

  1. Log In: Go to the ITR e-filing portal and log in with your credentials.
  2. Access Services: Click on the 'Services' tab and select 'Refund Reissue.'
  3. Create Request: On the new page, click 'Create Refund Reissue Request.' Choose the ITR for which you want the refund reissued.
  4. Select Account: Click 'Next' and choose the validated bank account for the refund.
  5. Verification: Proceed with the verification method—Aadhaar OTP, EVC, or DSC.

What to Do If Re-Issue Request Doesn't Resolve the Issue

If requesting a re-issue does not solve the problem, or if there is a significant delay without a clear explanation, you should file a grievance with the tax department’s grievance cell. Keep an eye on your email and SMS for updates, and regularly check the status on the ITR e-filing website.

Conclusion

While timely filing of your ITR is essential, delays in refund processing can occur due to various factors. By following the appropriate steps and requesting a refund re-issue if needed, you can address these delays effectively.

Disclaimer

This blog is based on information provided by India Today. Bimacure does not hold any rights to this content. For the original article, please visit India Today. All rights to the original content are held by India Today.

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