Income Tax Return Filing: A Simple Checklist for Individuals
Filing your income tax return (ITR) is far less stressful when your paperwork is ready. Here is a practical checklist for salaried individuals and investors.
Personal & bank details
Keep your PAN, Aadhaar, and the bank account details (with IFSC) where you want any refund credited. Pre-validate that account on the income tax portal.
Income documents
- Form 16 from your employer for salary income
- Form 16A / 26AS / AIS for TDS on interest, commissions and other income
- Capital gains statements from your broker or mutual fund for shares and securities
- Rental income details and, if applicable, home loan interest certificates
Deductions and investments
Gather proof for deductions you intend to claim — life and health insurance premiums, PPF/ELSS investments, tuition fees, and donations. Choosing between the old and new tax regime depends on how much you can claim, so it is worth comparing both.
Reconcile before you file
Match your income and TDS against Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement (AIS). Mismatches are the most common reason for notices — resolving them before filing saves trouble later.
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