As the financial year 2024-25 comes to a close, many taxpayers may wonder whether they can file their Income Tax Returns (ITR) without hiring a Chartered Accountant (CA). The answer is yes! Filing your ITR online through the official Income Tax Department website is straightforward. This guide will help you understand the process and file your ITR independently.

An Income Tax Return (ITR) is a declaration of your income and the taxes paid for a particular financial year. Filing an ITR is essential for:

• Claiming tax refunds
• Loan applications
• Visa processing
• Maintaining financial compliance

To ensure a smooth filing process, keep the following documents ready:

• Form 16 (issued by your employer, detailing salary income and TDS deductions)
• Form 16A (issued for tax deductions on income other than salary, such as interest income)
• Form 26AS (a consolidated tax statement available on the Income Tax portal)
• Capital gain statements (if applicable)
• Proof of tax-saving investments (under Sections 80C, 80D, etc.)

Step 1: Login to the Income Tax Portal

• Visit the official Income Tax e-filing website:
• Click on 'Login' and enter your credentials (PAN, password, and Captcha code)

Step 2: Navigate to ITR Filing Section

• Go to the 'e-File' menu
• Select 'Income Tax Return'

Step 3: Select the Appropriate ITR Form

• Choose the correct ITR form based on your income source:
  • ITR-1: For salaried individuals with income up to Rs 50 lakh
  • ITR-2: For individuals with capital gains or multiple income sources
• Choose the Assessment Year (AY) 2024-25

Step 4: Verify and Submit the Data

• Carefully fill in all necessary details
• Cross-check information from Form 16, Form 26AS, and investment proofs
• Click on 'Submit'

Step 5: E-Verify Your Return

• After submission, verify your return using one of the available methods:
  • Aadhaar OTP
  • Net banking
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Step 6: Upload and Confirm Submission

• Once verified, your ITR filing process is complete!
• Download the acknowledgment receipt for future reference

Filing an ITR is mandatory if:

• Your total income before deductions exceeds the basic exemption limit
• You own property outside India as a beneficiary
• You have deposited a large amount in bank accounts:
  • Rs 1 crore or more in current accounts
  • Rs 50 lakh or more in savings accounts

Filing an ITR online without a CA is a simple and efficient process. By keeping your documents ready and following the step-by-step guide, you can easily complete your tax return and avoid unnecessary delays. Start early to ensure a hassle-free experience!