Tax filing can be confusing, and errors can lead to complications. This blog deals with common mistakes made during the ITR process, including incorrect form selection, forgetting income sources, and more. Additionally, we address frequently asked questions to ensure a smooth tax filing experience.
Introduction
Filing Taxes is an essential duty for every eligible citizen. However, with intricate details and numerous forms, errors can creep in, potentially leading to legal repercussions or missed refund opportunities. Recognising these pitfalls is the first step to avoiding them.
Many people handle their own tax returns. The last date to submit your tax return for FY 2022-23 (AY 2023-24) was July 31, 2023. Because tax rules can be tricky, waiting until the last minute might lead to mistakes in your filing. Talk to tax experts or hire one to file your taxes on time. Vakilsearch tax experts can help you with everything you require.
If you miss one detail, it is very difficult to serve the purpose of filing taxes. Be very careful and if required, seek help from our CA/CS tax filing experts at Vakilsearch!
Mistakes to be avoided while filing ITR:
Selecting the incorrect ITR Form:
When you’re getting ready to file your taxes, it’s crucial to pick the correct ITR form. Each form is designed for different types of income and sources. If you pick the wrong one, your filing could be incorrect. Always double-check to make sure your form matches your income situation.
Interest income:
Many people have savings accounts or fixed deposits that earn interest. This interest isn’t just extra money; it’s also considered income by the tax department. So, when you’re filing your taxes, remember to include any interest you’ve earned. It’s part of your taxable income, and leaving it out could cause issues.
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Failure to pre-validate your bank account:
If you’re expecting a refund after you file your taxes, you want to make sure that money goes to the right place. That’s where pre-validating your bank account comes in. By confirming your bank details with the tax department ahead of time, you’re making sure any refunds get to you without any problems.
Selecting the wrong assessment year:
Filing your taxes isn’t just about numbers; it’s also about dates. Every tax filing refers to a specific financial year, known as the assessment year. If you pick the wrong year, your filing won’t match your actual income for that period. So, always double-check to ensure you’re filing for the right financial year.
Forgetting to verify your ITR:
Once you’ve filled out your tax return, you’re not done yet. There’s one more step: verifying your return. If you skip this step, the tax department will consider your filing incomplete or invalid.
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Recent Development The ITR-U form is a newer version that lets you make changes to any past returns you’ve submitted within a 24-month period. It was brought in to help taxpayers stay compliant with tax rules, reducing the need for legal disputes. |
HRA not Given by Employer
If your employer doesn’t include House Rent Allowance (HRA) in your salary, you might think you can’t claim any tax benefits on rent paid. However, this isn’t entirely true.
Even without receiving HRA from your employer, you can still claim a deduction under Section 80GG of the Income Tax Act. This deduction is available if you meet specific conditions, such as not owning a house in the city where you work and paying rent that exceeds a certain percentage of your income.
Remember, having your landlord’s PAN number is crucial for claiming HRA deductions, whether you receive it from your employer or claim it separately under Section 80GG. Proper documentation is essential for successful tax claims.
Non Availing of the Available Deductions
The Indian income tax system offers various deductions and exemptions designed to reduce your tax liability. These deductions cover investments, expenses, and charitable contributions. However, many taxpayers overlook or underestimate the potential benefits of these tax-saving options.
From investments in retirement plans to medical expenses, there are numerous opportunities to lower your taxable income. Understanding the eligible deductions, the required documentation, and the calculation process can be complex. Using tax-filing software or consulting a tax professional can help you identify and claim all eligible deductions, maximising your tax savings.
Not Disclosing Foreign Assets & Liability Details
Hiding foreign assets and liabilities from the Indian tax authorities is a serious offense. Indian residents are required to declare all foreign income, assets, and financial interests, regardless of whether they generate taxable income in India.
Failure to disclose foreign assets can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential legal action. It’s essential to accurately report all foreign holdings, including shares, mutual funds, bank accounts, and real estate, to avoid severe consequences.
Transparency and honesty are crucial when dealing with foreign assets. Non-compliance can damage your financial reputation and create unnecessary legal complications.
Interest on NSC is not Tax-Free
While National Savings Certificates (NSCs) are popular for tax savings, it’s essential to understand how the interest is taxed.
The interest earned on your NSC is not tax-free. However, you get a tax benefit. The interest for the first four years is considered reinvested and can be claimed as a deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. This helps reduce your taxable income.
But, there’s a catch. The interest earned in the fifth and final year is taxable as ‘income from other sources’. So, while NSCs offer tax advantages, it’s crucial to be aware of these nuances to avoid any surprises during tax filing.
Not Paying Advance Tax
Failing to pay advance tax by the due dates can lead to financial penalties. There are specific deadlines throughout the financial year for making advance tax payments. Missing these deadlines or underpaying can result in interest charges.
It’s crucial to estimate your annual tax liability accurately and distribute these payments across the four quarterly instalments. Proper planning and timely payments can help you avoid unnecessary financial burdens.
Conclusion
Tax filing, Tax returns and anything related to tax should not be taken carelessly. We must be aware of the legal repercussions that happen when one makes a mistake in such legal proceedings for Filing Taxes.
For any help regarding tax filing, Vakilsearch experts are always ready to assist you. There is no need to stress as we provide the best and most reliable services with 300+ legal experts!
FAQ:
1. What is the most common mistake when filing taxes?
Often, it's forgetting to declare interest income or choosing the wrong ITR form.
2. What happens if we file ITR incorrectly?
Incorrect filing can lead to penalties, notices from the tax department, or even legal complications.
3. What are the common tax mistakes in India?
Common errors include not declaring all income sources, forgetting to verify the ITR, and not pre-validating bank accounts.
4. How do I correct my mistakes in ITR?
You can file a revised return to correct errors, but ensure you do so within the stipulated timeframe.
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