The income tax return (ITR) is a crucial document that every taxpayer in India is required to file with the Income Tax Department. It is a statement of income earned during the financial year, i.e., from April 1st to March 31st of the following year, along with the tax paid on it. In this blog, we will discuss the basics of income tax return and the importance of filing it on time.
What is an income tax return?
An income tax return is a form that taxpayers file with the Income Tax Department, declaring their income and tax liability for a given financial year. It is a mandatory requirement under the Income Tax Act, 1961, and failure to file it within the stipulated time can result in penalties and legal consequences.
Who needs to file an income tax return?
Every individual or entity that has taxable income in India is required to file an income tax return. The following individuals are required to file ITR:
Individuals whose gross total income exceeds Rs. 2.5 lakhs in a financial year.
Individuals who earn income from capital gains, dividends, or interest.
Individuals who have foreign assets or foreign income.
Business owners and professionals who earn income from their business or profession.
Companies, partnership firms, and other entities that have taxable income.
What are the different types of income tax returns?
The Income Tax Department has categorized ITR forms based on the source and amount of income earned. The following are the different types of ITR forms:
ITR-1: This form is for individuals who earn income from salary, one house property, and other sources like interest, etc.
ITR-2: This form is for individuals who have income from more than one house property, capital gains, or foreign income.
ITR-3: This form is for individuals who have income from a business or profession.
ITR-4: This form is for individuals and HUFs (Hindu Undivided Families) who have income from a business or profession and have opted for the presumptive taxation scheme.
ITR-5: This form is for LLPs (Limited Liability Partnerships), AOPs (Association of Persons), BOIs (Body of Individuals), and other entities.
ITR-6: This form is for companies that do not claim exemption under Section 11 of the Income Tax Act.
ITR-7: This form is for persons including companies required to furnish return under Section 139(4A) or Section 139(4B) or Section 139(4C) or Section 139(4D) only.
What is the due date for filing income tax return?
The due date for filing income tax returns in India is July 31st of every year. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has extended the due date to December 31st for the financial year 2020-21. It is advisable to file the income tax return well before the due date to avoid any last-minute rush and penalty.
What happens if you fail to file income tax return on time?
If a taxpayer fails to file the income tax return on or before the due date, he/she will be liable to pay a penalty of Rs. 5,000. If the return is filed after December 31st of the assessment year, the penalty amount may go up to Rs. 10,000.
In conclusion, filing an income tax return is not only a legal requirement but also a responsible citizen's duty. By filing ITR on time, taxpayers can avoid penalties and legal consequences and also contribute to the nation