ITR Filing 2025 Avoid These Costly Mistakes
Whether you’re a salaried employee, freelancer, or business owner, here are the most common mistakes to avoid while filing your ITR for AY 2025–26.
New in AY 2025–26: Key Changes You Must Know
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) introduced several changes for this assessment year via Notification No. 40/2025 dated 29.04.2025. Make sure you’re aware of:
- Updated ITR-1 and ITR-4 forms
- Pre-filled deductions now editable but require additional validation
- More disclosures for exempt income and capital gains
- Revised deadlines (extended to 15th September 2025 as per CBDT Circular No. 06/2025)
Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in ITR Filing 2025
| Mistake | Why It Matters | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Not reporting all income | Even exempt income must be disclosed | Use AIS + TIS to cross-check |
| 2. Choosing wrong ITR form | Leads to defective return notice | Refer CBDT ITR utility tool |
| 3. Mismatch in Form 16 vs AIS | Triggers scrutiny or refund delay | Match figures before submission |
| 4. Skipping foreign income or assets | Attracts penalty under Black Money Act | Declare under Schedule FA |
| 5. Not opting or wrongly opting new vs old regime | Affects tax liability | Check Section 115BAC rules |
| 6. Ignoring Section 80 deductions | Missed tax savings | Use deduction summary carefully |
| 7. Using old bank account for refund | Refund gets failed | Update via e-filing portal |
| 8. Not e-verifying within 30 days | Return treated as invalid | Use Aadhaar OTP or netbanking |
| 9. Claiming fake deductions or HRA | May trigger scrutiny or penalty | Only use genuine proofs |
| 10. Filing after due date | Lose carry forward of losses, face late fees | File before 15th September 2025 |
Expert View: Tip from a Tax Consultant
“Before submitting your return, always download and review your AIS and TIS. Even small interest incomes, if skipped, can create a mismatch and delay your refund. The portal now highlights mismatches clearly — use that to your advantage.”
Step-by-Step Checklist for Safe ITR Filing
- Gather documents: Form 16, Form 26AS, AIS, interest certificates
- Choose correct regime: Old or New under Section 115BAC
- Select right form: Based on source of income
- Claim all eligible deductions: 80C to 80U
- Cross-check tax credits: Match Form 26AS and TDS claims
- Disclose exempt income: Agricultural income, PF withdrawal etc.
- Disclose assets (if required): For residents with foreign holdings
- Use correct bank account: For faster refund
- E-verify timely: Aadhaar OTP, net banking or DSC
- Save acknowledgment (ITR-V): Keep for future use
Legal Reference
- Section 139(1) – Voluntary filing of return
- Section 234F – Late filing fee
- Section 270A – Penalty for underreporting
- Section 115BAC – New tax regime option
- Rule 12 – Prescribes ITR forms, amended via Notification No. 40/2025
Summary
Avoid mistakes in ITR Filing 2025 to prevent tax notices, delays, or penalties. Check your AIS, choose the right form, disclose all income, and file before 15th Sept 2025.
Final Word from Efiletax
Don’t let a filing error cost you time or money. Efiletax helps you file your Income Tax Return correctly, securely, and stress-free — with expert review and support.
FAQ Section
Q1. Can I revise my ITR after submission?
Yes, revised return can be filed before 31st Dec 2025 under Section 139(5).
Q2. What if I forget to e-verify?
Return is invalid if not e-verified within 30 days.
Q3. Is ITR-U allowed for AY 2025–26?
Yes, if conditions under Section 139(8A) are met.