ITR processing time means the duration it takes after the return has been filed. For AY 2025-26, the Income Tax Department has implemented enhanced digital systems to expedite ITR processing and refund disbursement.
The department is committed to faster turnaround times through automation and streamlined verification processes, while maintaining accuracy in refund calculations. Taxpayers can expect more efficient processing than in previous years, with most straightforward returns being settled within the standard 4-5 week timeframe post e-verification.
However, complex filings or cases requiring additional verification may still experience longer processing durations. The department encourages taxpayers to file early, ensure error-free submissions, and complete e-verification promptly to benefit from these improved processing capabilities.
Factors Influencing Processing Time
- Accuracy of Information: For faster processing, ensure the details in your Income Tax Return (ITR) match with Form 26AS, the Annual Information Statement (AIS), and the Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS). Any discrepancies may result in delays.
- Verification: Your ITR must be verified—either electronically or by submitting the physical ITR-V to the Centralized Processing Center (CPC) in Bengaluru for processing to begin. Unverified returns are deemed invalid.
- Bank Account Details: To avoid delays in refund processing, confirm that your bank account is pre-validated and correctly linked to your PAN. Incorrect details may prolong the refund process.
- Timely Filing: Filing your return early, particularly before the due date, typically leads to quicker refunds compared to last-minute submissions.
Expected ITR Processing Time (AY 2025-26)
Normal Cases (Without Scrutiny)
- e-Verified ITR (using DSC, Aadhaar OTP, or EVC): Typically processed within 1-2 months from the filing date.
- Paper-filed ITR (if applicable): Takes longer, usually 3-4 months for processing.
Cases Selected for Scrutiny
- If your return is picked for scrutiny, processing may extend to 6-12 months or more, depending on case complexity.
Defective or Incomplete Returns
- If discrepancies are found, the IT department may issue a notice under Section 139(9).
- Processing resumes only after corrections are submitted.
How to Check ITR Processing Status?
One can track your ITR status via:
- Income Tax e-Filing Portal → Login → "View Returns/Forms" → Check status.
- CPC Bengaluru SMS/Email Updates (if registered).
Refund Processing Time
If a refund is due, it usually takes 4 - 5 weeks after ITR processing is complete.
Key Deadlines for AY 2025-26 (FY 2024-25)
- ITR Filing Begins: The e-filing portal for AY 2025-26 opened with the release of ITR-1 and ITR-4 utilities by late May/early June 2025.
- Form 16 Issuance Deadline: Employers must issue Form 16 to salaried employees by June 15, 2025.
- Last Quarter TDS Return Filing Deadline: The due date for filing Q4 TDS returns was May 31, 2025, and it may take a few days for this data to appear in Form 26AS, AIS, and TIS.
- Extended ITR Due Date (Individuals/HUFs – Non-Audit Cases): The CBDT has extended the deadline from July 31, 2025, to September 15, 2025.
- ITR Due Date (Businesses Requiring Audit): The last date for filing returns is October 31, 2025.
- ITR Due Date (Businesses with International/Specified Domestic Transactions): The deadline for filing returns with transfer pricing documentation is November 30, 2025.
- Revised/Belated Return Deadline: The last date to file a revised or belated return is December 31, 2025.
FAQs
Usually refunds are processed within 20-45 days after e-verifying your Income Tax Return. If you send the acknowledgment physically ITR-V form, it takes longer.
Yes, you can get notice. After your ITR is processed, the Income Tax Department sends an intimation under Section 143(1).
Yes, you can rectify the return after processing.
CAclubindia
