Filing your income tax return (ITR) online can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are doing it for the first time. However, with the right information and guidance, the process can be quite straightforward. This guide will help salaried employees understand how to file income tax returns online with ease. Additionally, if you have a home loan, knowing the tax benefits can be quite advantageous. Whether you are new to this or looking to enhance your understanding, this blog will outline the complete steps to file ITR online for salaried individuals. We will also discuss other useful details regarding the ITR filing type for salaried persons.
Latest update on ITR filing deadline
Taxpayers in India have received some relief regarding the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for the financial year 2024–25. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the ITR filing deadline from the original date of 31 July 2025 to a new deadline of 15 September 2025. This extension applies to Assessment Year 2025–26 and provides individuals more time to prepare and file their returns without facing late fees or penalties. If you’re a salaried employee, make sure to use this time wisely to gather all your documents and file your return accurately.
Understanding the basics of income tax filing
If your annual income is Rs. 3,00,000 or more, you must file an income tax return as per the new tax regime for FY 2023–24. The tax exemption limit varies based on the taxpayer’s age and the chosen tax regime.
Basic tax exemption limits
Age group |
Old tax regime (FY 2022–23 & FY 2023–24) |
New tax regime (FY 2023–24) |
Up to 60 years |
Rs. 2,50,000 |
Rs. 3,00,000 |
Between 60 and 80 years |
Rs. 3,00,000 |
Rs. 3,00,000 |
Above 80 years |
Rs. 5,00,000 |
Rs. 3,00,000 |
You are required to file an ITR if any of the following apply:
You earn income from multiple sources such as capital gains, rental income, or investments.
You hold foreign assets or have foreign income.
You’ve spent over Rs. 1 lakh on electricity bills in one year.
You’ve deposited over Rs. 1 crore into one or more current accounts.
You’ve spent more than Rs. 2 lakh on international travel.
Filing ITR is a legal requirement and ensures your financial records remain compliant.
Types of ITR forms for salaried employees
Choosing the correct ITR form is essential for filing your tax return correctly. Here's a breakdown of the ITR forms that salaried employees may use:
ITR-1 (SAHAJ)
This is the most commonly used form for salaried individuals. It is applicable if:
Your total income does not exceed Rs. 50 lakh.
Your income sources include salary or pension, one residential property, interest income, or dividends.
Your agricultural income (if any) does not exceed Rs. 5,000.
ITR-2
Use this form if:
You are an individual or a member of a Hindu Undivided Family (HUF).
You have income from capital gains, multiple residential properties, or foreign assets.
You are a company director or have invested in unlisted equity shares.
You are not earning income from business or profession.
ITR-3
This form is for individuals who have income from business or profession in addition to their salary. Salaried employees with side businesses or freelance income should consider this form.
ITR-4 (SUGAM)
This form is applicable to individuals, HUFs, or firms (other than LLPs) whose income is up to Rs. 50 lakh and is derived from business or profession under the presumptive taxation scheme (Sections 44AD, 44ADA, or 44AE).
Most salaried employees will file using ITR-1. However, if you have additional income types or qualify under other conditions, choose the form accordingly.
Documents required to file ITR return for salaried person
Here are the documents you’ll need to file your ITR as a salaried employee:
PAN Card
Aadhaar card
Form 16 (issued by your employer)
Form 16A (for tax deducted on other incomes like interest)
Form 26AS (consolidated tax statement)
Bank account statements
Monthly salary slips
Capital gains statement, if applicable
Details of deductions under Section 80D and 80U, if claiming medical or disability deductions
Having these documents ready ensures a smooth and accurate filing process.
How to file Income Tax Return (ITR) for salaried person online?
Filing your income tax return online is easy if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Log in to the e-filing portal
Visit the official income tax website and go to the login page.
Enter your PAN, Aadhaar, or user ID → Click “Continue” → Enter your password and proceed.
Step 2: Begin the filing process
Click on “e-File” → “Income Tax Returns” → “File Income Tax Return”.
Step 3: Choose assessment year
Select the correct Assessment Year (e.g., AY 2023–24).
Choose “Online” as the mode of filing → Click “Continue”.
Step 4: Select your status
Choose “Individual” under taxpayer category → Click “Continue”.
Step 5: Pick the right ITR form
Select the suitable form (usually ITR-1 for salaried persons) based on your income type and profession.
Step 6: Choose reason for filing
Choose from one of the following:
Income exceeds the exemption limit
Specific conditions make ITR filing mandatory
Other reasons
Click “Continue”.
Step 7: Enter bank details and verify information
Fill in your bank details and personal data. Some fields may auto-fill. Check thoroughly and validate the summary.
Step 8: e-Verify your ITR
This is a crucial step. Without e-verification, your return is incomplete.
Verify using Aadhaar OTP, Net Banking, or EVC.
Alternatively, post a signed copy of your ITR-V to CPC, Bangalore.
Benefits of filing income tax returns online
Filing income tax returns online offers numerous benefits to salaried employees:
- Convenience: You can file your returns from the comfort of your home or office, at any time.
- Speed: Online filing is much faster compared to traditional methods.
- Accuracy: The online portal helps in reducing errors with automated calculations and validations.
- Refunds: If you are eligible for a tax refund, filing online speeds up the process.
- Record Keeping: Online filing provides a digital record of your tax returns, which is easy to access when needed.
How to confirm if ITR is filed?
Once your return is submitted, confirm the filing status with these steps:
Step 1: Log in to the e-Filing portal using your credentials.
Step 2: Go to “e-File” → “Income Tax Returns” → “View Filed Returns”.
Step 3: You will see a list of all ITRs filed under your PAN.
Use filters to narrow down by Assessment Year or Filing Type.
Click “View Details” to check the current status of your return: whether it’s filed, verified, or processed.
Different types of tax saving options to consider
Saving tax is possible through a number of deductions and exemptions. Here are some key tax-saving options:
1. Deductions up to Rs. 1.5 lakh under Section 80C
You can invest in instruments like ELSS mutual funds, Public Provident Fund (PPF), Life Insurance policies, or repay the principal on a home loan.
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2. Standard deduction for salaried employees
A standard deduction of Rs. 50,000 is automatically applied to salaried individuals to lower taxable income.
3. Deductions under Section 80D
Claim deductions on health insurance premiums for yourself, your spouse, children, or dependent parents.
4. Deduction for higher education (Section 80E)
You can reduce your tax liability by claiming interest paid on education loans from approved institutions.
5. Deductions for charitable donations (Section 80G)
Donations made to eligible charities can be deducted up to a certain limit.
6. Investments in government schemes
Schemes like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana and Post Office deposits also provide tax-saving benefits under certain limits.
Note: Some of these deductions are only applicable under the old tax regime. Choose your regime wisely to optimise your tax savings.
Preparing to file income tax returns online
Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and accurate filing process. Here’s what you need to do to get ready:
- Collect necessary documents: Gather all required documents such as Form 16, salary slips, bank statements, and investment proofs.
- Check form 26AS: Ensure that the TDS details in Form 26AS match with your Form 16.
- Calculate your income: Include all sources of income like salary, interest from savings accounts, and any other income.
- Claim deductions: Make a list of all eligible deductions under sections 80C, 80D, etc., to reduce your taxable income.
- Choose the correct ITR form: Make sure you select the appropriate ITR form based on your income sources.
Tips for a smooth filing experience
Here are some tips to make your online tax filing experience smooth:
- Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute to file your returns.
- Double-check information: Ensure all the information you provide is accurate to avoid errors.
- Use the latest forms: Make sure you are using the latest ITR forms available on the portal.
- Save your work: Save your progress frequently to avoid losing data.
- Seek help if needed: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you are unsure about any aspect of the filing process.
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Conclusion
Filing your income tax return is not only a legal requirement but also a vital financial step if your income crosses the basic exemption limit. Whether you are a government or private employee, accurate ITR filing ensures compliance, helps with loan applications, and maintains financial discipline.
In this guide, we’ve shared a step-by-step process for salaried employees to file their returns online, including required documents, ITR form types, and tax-saving tips. Use the extended deadline wisely and ensure all details are accurate before submission.
Tax filing doesn’t need to be stressful when you’re prepared!
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