Filing income tax returns (ITR) has become much easier with the rise of online platforms and professional tax consultants. Taxpayers who find it difficult to calculate their tax liability or manage multiple sources of income can now use online services without leaving home. From free self-filing options to expert-assisted services, there are solutions available for every kind of taxpayer. However, the fees charged by online tax consultants vary depending on the complexity of the return.

For individuals who have a single source of income, such as salaried employees, the process of filing tax returns is relatively straightforward. They can log in to the Income Tax Department’s official e-filing portal and submit their return free of cost. Several private platforms also provide self-filing plans at minimal charges.

For example, JioFinance offers a self-filing plan starting at just ₹24, which is suitable for taxpayers with only salary income. Most other platforms, however, begin their basic packages in the range of ₹400–₹500. These plans are designed for users who need a simple filing process without additional professional assistance.

The scenario becomes more complicated when taxpayers have multiple income streams such as salary, rental income, business income, or capital gains. In such cases, detailed calculations are required to ensure accuracy, and any error can lead to penalties or delays in refunds.

Platforms like ClearTax, Tax2win, and TaxBuddy offer affordable options for these taxpayers. ClearTax provides self-filing services starting at ₹199, while Tax2win begins at ₹499 and TaxBuddy at ₹699. For more complex cases, these platforms also provide expert-assisted filing services where professionals guide users through the entire process. The fees for these plans usually start around ₹799.

For taxpayers dealing with intricate income structures, foreign income, or large capital gains, chartered accountant (CA)-assisted filing is often recommended. These services are more expensive but provide comprehensive guidance and ensure compliance with tax laws.

JioFinance and TaxBuddy both offer CA-assisted filing starting at ₹999. ClearTax charges around ₹1,299 for this service, while Tax2win offers customized plans ranging between ₹799 and ₹7,968, depending on the complexity of the return. The higher fees reflect the additional time, effort, and accuracy needed to handle advanced tax situations.

Many taxpayers often delay filing their returns in the hope that the government will extend the deadline. However, tax experts strongly advise against this approach. If the deadline is not extended, taxpayers risk penalties, additional interest on unpaid taxes, and delays in refunds. Filing on time not only ensures peace of mind but also avoids unnecessary financial burden.

Whether you are a salaried employee with a simple return or a professional with multiple income streams, there are online tax filing options tailored to your needs. Self-filing platforms offer budget-friendly services for straightforward cases, while CA-assisted plans provide in-depth support for complex filings.

With ITR deadlines fast approaching, experts recommend taxpayers choose the right plan and complete their filings at the earliest. Relying on last-minute extensions is risky, and timely filing ensures compliance, faster refunds, and freedom from penalties.