The Income Tax Department has started the online facility for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2025-26. Taxpayers who do not need to get their accounts audited must file their ITR for FY 2024-25 before the due date.

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has also extended the ITR filing deadline from July 31 to September 15.

The Income Tax Department has already released all ITR forms for individual taxpayers. ITR-1 is for salaried individuals whose income is less than ₹50 lakh in a year. ITR-4 is for individuals, HUFs, and firms whose business income is up to ₹50 lakh in a year.

Filing ITR can be confusing because of many forms and documents. It is more difficult for people who file ITR without expert help. In such cases, small mistakes can lead to a penalty or even legal action. Therefore, you should choose the form based on your income. Throughout this article, we will also share some important points to help you avoid the mistakes mentioned below.

Don’t Make These Mistakes While Filing ITR

1. Wrong ITR Form

Many people choose the wrong ITR form. You should pick the correct form based on your income. If you use the wrong form, your ITR is not valid and you may get a fine. But if you filed before the last date, you can file a revised return.

2. Not Checking AIS and Form 26AS

Some people do not check their AIS and Form 26AS. This can cause problems. Always check these forms before filing ITR to report your income correctly.

3. Not Showing All Income

If you do not show all your income, you can get a big fine. The fine can be up to 200% of the tax you did not pay. You may also have to pay extra interest or face legal action.

4. Ignoring Tax-Free Income

Even if some income is not taxed, you still need to show it in your ITR under the right section (Schedule EI). This helps you follow tax rules properly.

5. Income from Old Job

If you changed jobs during the year, you must show income from your old job too. Collect papers like Form 16 from your old job to file your ITR correctly.

6. Wrong HRA Claim

If you give wrong details to get HRA benefit, you may get a big fine. The fine can be up to 200% of the wrong claim. Keep all rent receipts to get HRA properly.

7. Wrong Tax Regime

You can choose old or new tax regime each year. The new regime is the default for FY 2024-25. The new regime has lower tax, but the old one gives more ways to save tax. Choose the one that is better for you.