Filing income tax returns accurately is critical. Common mistakes can lead to delays, notices, or even penalties. Here are seven frequent errors—and how to avoid them.

1. Choosing the Wrong ITR Form

Selecting the incorrect form (like using ITR-1 when you have capital gains or rental income) can invalidate the return or trigger a defect notice. Always match your income sources to the correct ITR form.

2. Quoting the Wrong Assessment Year

Using an incorrect assessment year (AY) can result in double taxation and unnecessary penalties. For example, FY 2024-25 corresponds to AY 2025-26—always verify before filing.

3. Incorrect or Incomplete Personal & Bank Details

Typos in PAN, name, address, bank account number, or IFSC cause refund delays or misprocessing. Ensure all personal and bank information matches exactly with official records.

4. Not Disclosing All Sources of Income

Even exempt or minor incomes—like interest on savings, fixed deposits, rental income, or capital gains—must be declared. Omissions can trigger scrutiny or notices.

5. Skipping Form 26AS / AIS Verification

Mismatch between your ITR, Form 26AS, or AIS (Annual Information Statement) may raise red flags. Always reconcile these documents before submission.
 

6. Not Filing or Missing the Deadline

Delays in filing ITR can lead to penalties up to ₹10,000 and loss of benefits like carry-forward of losses. The ITR deadline for FY 2024-25 is typically July 31, 2025 (now extended to September 15, 2025).

7. Failing to E-Verify Your ITR

An ITR not e-verified (via Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by sending the signed acknowledgement to CPC Bangalore) is considered invalid. E-verification must be completed within 120 days of filing.

 

No.	Mistake	Risk/Impact	Avoidance Tip
1	Wrong ITR form	Defective return, notices	Match form to income type
2	Wrong Assessment Year	Penalty, double taxation	Confirm financial & assessment years
3	Incorrect personal/bank details	Refund delay, misprocessing	Double-check entries
4	Incomplete income reporting	Scrutiny, penalties	Disclose all income types
5	Not verifying Form 26AS/AIS	Mismatch, notices	Reconcile data before filing
6	Late or no filing	Penalties, loss of benefits	File well before deadlines
7	Not e-verifying the return	Return considered invalid	E-verify promptly within 120 days

 

Conclusion

Avoid these seven errors to ensure your ITR is processed smoothly and accurately. Use trusted e-filing platforms, cross-check all data, and file early. Stay compliant, avoid stress, and minimize the risk of notices or delays.