How to File Your Income Tax Online in India (2025 Guide for Beginners)
Are you trying to file income tax in India? It might seem to be a daunting task, especially if you are a beginner in this field. However, with proper assistance from an expert, combined with advancements in digital infrastructure, the process has become simpler and more user-friendly. You might be a salaried employee, a freelancer, a small business owner, or a self-employed person looking to file income tax online India — also commonly termed as e-filing. This can save you time as well as reduce paperwork.
This brisk guide is here to aid you in navigating every aspect you need to learn and understand about filing taxes online in India for 2025, especially if you are just venturing out for the first time.
The concept of income tax filing
As we are discussing filing your income tax, we need to understand that it is all about submitting a report of the money you have earned over the financial year. A financial year usually runs from April 1 to March 31. For submitting a report on your income, you will need to figure out how much tax you owe and provide that information to the Income Tax Department of India.
As you initiate filing your income tax, you also need to remember if your earnings exceed the basic limit of exemption, which is around Rs 2.5 lakh for individuals under the age of 60 in 2025. For this, you will have to file your Income Tax Return, also termed as ITR. Even if you don’t owe any taxes, submitting your return can indeed prove to be beneficial. But how? Let’s take a look.
- Applying for loans or visas
- Claiming refunds on TDS
- Maintaining your financial records in good shape
Crucial dates for filing income tax in India
If you are trying to file income tax in India, be particular about the dates. You need to abide by the following dates. Let’s take a glimpse at some important dates.
| i)ITR filing Initiation | April 1, 2025 |
| ii)Last date for filing ITR without paying late charge – | July 31, 2025 |
| iii) Last date of filing with late fee – | December 31, 2025 |
| iv) Last date to revise ITR | March 31, 2026 |
Documents required for filing ITR
As you begin processing for ITR, you need to keep some of the documents in hand. What are those documents? Let’s take a look.
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Form 16 it’s provided by your employer
- Form 26AS, you need to download the form from income tax portal
- Details of your bank account or bank statement
- Salary or pay slips. If you are a business owner show your venture’s income records
- Provide your investment proofs like LIC, ELSS, PPF, etc.
- Details of capital gains
- Home loan or education loan interest certificate
- Rent receipts required if you are claiming HRA
How to file an income tax return online in India, step by step
If you are not sure about the process of submitting your income tax or filing them follow this quick guide. This will give you an idea of how to file an income tax return online in India step by step
Step 1: Firstly, try to register or log in to the Income Tax e-Filing Portal. Just visit the portal: https://www.incometax.gov.in
As you visit the portal, click on the “Login” option.
Your PAN number will serve as your User ID.
After that, you will need to authenticate your login either by giving an OTP or your password.
If you are a beginner user doing the process for the first time, don’t forget to register first with your PAN, Aadhaar, and mobile number.
Step 2: Then you need to link your PAN card with Aadhaar. Remember that linking your PAN card with Aadhaar is indeed a mandatory process. If you try to avoid this step, you won’t be able to file your return.
Step 3: As you finish registering as well as linking your PAN card with Aadhar, the very next step that you need to follow is downloading Form 26AS, and then you can head over to “e-file”. After that, you need to click on “View Form 26AS.” This form helps you to understand all the TDS deduction calculations. Also, remember to download the AIS or Annual Information Statement as well. This will seamlessly help you to double-check your income details.
Step 4: In the fourth stage, you need to select “e-File Income Tax Return” and then click on the “e-File” option. After that, go to “Income Tax Returns” option and select “File Income Tax Return.” You need to make sure to choose the right assessment year: 2025-26. As you select the assessment year, choose your filing method: Online. Finally, you can opt for the ITR form that matches your income type.
Step 5: As you fill up the form before submitting, do verify or check the details of your information like your name, PAN, and Aadhaar card details, along with details of your employer and TDS. If you spot any mistakes while checking, take your time out and make the necessary changes.
Step 6: As you proceed do declare if any additional income is present or not. Be particular to mention income from other sources. It can be in the form of interest you receive, fixed deposits, freelancing, or rent. Also, make sure to report any capital gains from shares, mutual funds, or property.
Step 7: You need to rightly choose your tax regime in 2025. But why? Standing in 2025as per latest budget announcement by the Government of India, you have a couple of options to consider.
Old regime: This one comes with deductions as well as exemptions.
New regime: In this regime, you will enjoy lower tax slabs but without any deductions.
Do check both options and select the one that minimizes your tax liability and fits best for you.
Step 8: As you file your ITR online, the system will automatically calculate your tax liability. Here you can check your gross taxable income, any deductions you owe, or any refund you might receive. If you see that you need to pay taxes, make sure to pay using Challan 280.
Step 9: Check and then submit your return
Once all the above-mentioned steps are complete, do the following steps-
- Click “Preview Return” to verify
- Submit your ITR.
Disclaimer – This blog is for informational purposes only. Before conducting any investment, it is advisable to carry out comprehensive research.
People Also Ask About File Income Tax Online India
What is the best way to file taxes online in India?
You need to browse the official income tax portal; there, you will get pre-filled forms and an e-verification process.
Can I file my own taxes online in India?
One can definitely file taxes online in India by oneself by using the government’s e-filing portal.
How do I file ITR online in India without a CA?
You need to browse as well as register on the e-filing portal, then choose the ITR form, fill in your information, and after that, you can seamlessly complete the e-verification.
Which documents are needed for online ITR filing in India?
You need to have your PAN and Aadhaar card, along with other documents like Form 16, bank statements, Form 26AS, investment proofs, as well as salary slips.
Is online income tax filing free in India?
If you can file your taxes through the official government portal, then you can enjoy free service.
