ITR Filing Guidelines 2026: July is here, and those preparing to file their Income Tax Returns (ITRs) are feeling the pressure. The deadline for submitting ITRs is July 31st. Many individuals are filing their ITRs for the first time this year, but there’s no need to stress. Filing your first ITR is not as complicated as it may appear.
A lot of people believe that they need a Chartered Accountant (CA) to assist them, but the reality is that if your situation is straightforward, you can file your ITR on your own. All it takes is a few key documents and some careful attention.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of filing your ITR for the first time in simple terms, detailing the necessary documents and important considerations.
When is the last date to file your return?
The final date for salaried employees, pensioners, and investors (ITR-1/ITR-2) to file their returns is July 31, 2026. For freelancers and small businesses (ITR-3/ITR-4, non-audit), the deadline is August 31, 2026, while tax auditors have until October 31. Failing to meet these deadlines could lead to penalties ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000.
Who should fill out which form?
The Income Tax Department provides seven different forms, and taxpayers must select the appropriate form based on their income. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right form when filing your return. If your income comes solely from salary and interest, you will need to complete the ITR-1 form. If you have income from capital gains, foreign assets, or multiple properties, you will need to fill out the ITR-2 form. Those engaged in business or professional activities will use the ITR-3 form, while the ITR-4 form is designated for individuals opting for the presumptive taxation scheme.
Which documents are necessary?
If you’re filing your ITR, you’ll need to have a few essential documents handy before filling out the form. These include your PAN card, Aadhaar card, bank account details, Form 16, Form 26AS, TDS certificate, investment proof to claim tax deductions, proof of interest received from banks and post offices, donation receipts for claiming exemptions, stock trading statements, insurance policy receipts, a bank account validated with Aadhaar, a mobile number linked to Aadhaar, and finally, a certificate of interest earned from your bank .
How to file returns?
If you also want to file your return, you can do so by following the steps given below:
Step 1: First of all go to the Income Tax website [https://eportal.incometax.gov.in/].
Step 2: Enter your PAN number and log in. If this is your first visit, create a new password.
Step 3: Once logged in, click on e-File > Income Tax Return > File Income Tax Return on the dashboard displayed.
Step 4: Now select the year. For the new year, select Assessment Year 2026-27 and press ‘Continue’.
Step 5: After this, select the online filing option ‘Online’.
Step 6: Choose the correct ITR form (like ITR-1 or ITR-2) based on your income and tax deducted (TDS).
Step 7: After selecting the form, keep all your papers (like Form 16) nearby and click on ‘Start’.
Step 8: A few questions will appear on the screen. Tick the ones that apply to you and proceed.
Step 9: Now go to different sections and fill in the correct details of your income and deductions.
Step 10: After filling everything, the system will automatically calculate (Tax Calculation) and show you how much tax you owe.
Step 11: If you have tax dues, you can choose ‘Pay Now’ or ‘Pay Later’.
Step 12: If there is no tax due (or after paying the tax), click on ‘Preview Return’ shown below.
Step 13: Review your form carefully, tick the declaration box and click on ‘Proceed for Validation’.
Step 14: If everything on the form is correct, click the ‘Proceed to Verification’ button. Remember, verification is very important.
Step 15: Now select the verification method (e.g., by Aadhaar OTP) and click on ‘Continue’.
Step 16: As soon as you enter the OTP and submit it, the message ‘Return Filed Successfully’ will appear on the screen.
Step 17: You will get an Acknowledgement Number on the screen, keep it safe so that you can check the status later.
Step 18: Along with this, you will also receive a confirmation message regarding submission of the form on your registered mobile number and email ID.
Step 19: Most importantly: Make sure to e-verify your ITR within 30 days of filing it, otherwise your refund will be stuck and the form will be considered useless.