ITR Refund Pending After a Month? Here’s What to Do

ITR Refund Pending After a Month? Here’s What You Must Know

If your ITR refund is pending after a month of filing, you’re not alone. Many taxpayers in AY 2025–26 are seeing refund delays, despite filing correctly and on time. Here’s a clear breakdown of why it happens and what you can do to resolve it.

Why Is Your ITR Refund Still Pending?

Here are the most common reasons for delays:

• Processing may take 15–45 days or longer.
• Mismatch in bank details: Incorrect account number, IFSC code, or validation failure through NPCI can stop credit.
• Bank ECS failure: Sometimes refund fails due to inactive or closed accounts.

How to Check ITR Refund Processing Status

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Through Income Tax Portal

1. Log in to www.incometax.gov.in
2. Go to ‘e-File > Income Tax Returns > View Filed Returns’
3. Select the relevant AY 2025–26
4. Click ‘View Details’
5. Check processing status and refund status

Through NSDL TIN

1. Visit https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/oltas/refundstatuslogin.html
2. Enter your PAN, AY, and captcha
3. You’ll see refund status directly from SBI (the refund disbursing bank)

What If Refund Is Delayed Beyond 30–60 Days?

• Raise a Grievance on Income Tax Portal:
  Go to ‘Grievances > Submit Grievance’ → Select Refund issue → Mention details
• Contact CPC, Bengaluru:
  Helpline: 1800-103-0025 or 080-46605200
• Rectify Bank Account Issues:
  Update bank account details under ‘Profile > My Bank Account’
  Re-validate via e-verification (OTP or net banking)

Legal Reference You Should Know

• CBDT Circular No. 3/2023 – Emphasises timely processing of refunds and taxpayer communication

Expert Tip – Don’t Just Wait Silently

If your ITR refund is pending after a month, take proactive steps. Don’t assume it will come automatically. Validate your bank account, track return status, and raise grievances early. Waiting too long can delay your financial planning.

FAQs on ITR Refund Delays

Q1. How long does it take to receive an ITR refund?
Generally, within 7–45 days of return processing. But delays up to 2–3 months are possible.

Q2. Will I get interest on delayed refund?
Yes. As per Section 244A, you may receive interest if refund is delayed beyond 3 months from the return filing date.

Q3. Can refund fail due to account mismatch?
Yes. Bank must be pre-validated and linked to PAN. Mismatch causes refund rejection.

Q4. Is refund possible if ITR is under scrutiny?
No. Refunds are withheld until scrutiny or adjustment under Section 143(1)(a) is resolved.

Summary

ITR refund pending even after a month of filing? Check if your ITR is processed, bank details are validated, and no tax dues are pending. Track refund status via income tax or NSDL portal. Raise grievance if needed.