Trader
2616 Points
Joined August 2009
Nil return of income is acceptable even if there is no refund. Like any other returns, it too can be picked for scrutiny.
If you have been filing returns regularly and then because you have nil return by virtue of being below taxable limit on account of tax on income being nil (without any deductions), you can file the same on voluntary basis under section 139 as applicable. It is OK even if you do not file the returns under these circumstances. However, if there may be informations received in AIR or AO where you last filed the return thinks you are a stop filer, he can issue notice to file returns. In this case also you can file the nil return within time limit given to you.
If you have a PAN and have not file returns at all on account of being nil, in case there are any AIR Items against your PAN or Assessing officer to whom your case is alloted has reasons to believe that you are a NON Filer, then too he can issue notice to file returns and at that time also you can file your nil return. Only when filing returns after receiving notice, whether nil or otherwise it is no longer a voluntary return u/s 139 and you have to file the same under section which notice is issued to you.
The last date for nil return or return with tax on voluntary basis is 1 year from the end of assessment year, i.e. for Financial 2009-2010, since it is Assessment year 2010-11, the last date is 31/3/2012. In case you receive notice under any applicable sections, you have to file returns within the time limit called for in the notice that is applicable for that section.