The Income Tax Department has recently sent SMS and email alerts to many taxpayers. These messages inform them that some details in their income tax returns do not match the data available with the department.
In several cases, tax refunds have been put on hold, and taxpayers have been advised to file a revised income tax return if required.
This has created confusion among taxpayers, with many wondering whether everyone will now have to file their income tax returns again.
Why Has the Department Sent These Messages?
According to tax experts, these messages are not meant to frighten taxpayers. Instead, they are sent as a timely reminder to help people correct any mistakes they may have made while filing their returns.
Taxpayers who have filled in all details correctly do not need to worry.
However, those who have made errors unintentionally should file a revised return within the given time. Doing so can help in faster processing of refunds and avoid future tax-related issues.
Importantly, this message is not a notice or penalty warning. It is only a cautionary message (or nudge) to allow taxpayers to correct errors on their own.
When Is It Necessary to File a Revised Income Tax Return?
A revised income tax return should be filed when the details mentioned in your return do not match the Income Tax Department’s records. Filing a revised return in such cases helps avoid future notices, scrutiny, or penalties.
You should consider filing a revised return if:
You have claimed deductions or exemptions that are not reflected in AIS, Form 26AS, or the department’s data
Your interest income, dividend income, salary, or other income has been understated or reported incorrectly
PAN details or amounts related to donations or investments were entered incorrectly
You have claimed a higher refund by mistake
What to Do If All Details Are Correct
If you have correctly reported your income, deductions, and tax payments, and you have proper supporting documents, there is no need to panic.
In such cases, filing a revised return is not required. The Income Tax Department may resume the refund process later.
Why Is the December 31 Deadline Important?
As per income tax laws, taxpayers are allowed to file a revised return to correct mistakes only up to December 31. After this date, no changes can be made to the return.
If there are errors in a return and the taxpayer does not file a revised return before the deadline, the case may be selected for scrutiny, and the refund may get delayed.
Why Are Tax Refunds Being Withheld?
The Income Tax Department now uses technology-based systems to verify returns. If the information provided in a return does not match the data available with the department, the system flags it as a high-risk case.
In such situations, refunds are stopped temporarily, and taxpayers are given a chance to correct the mistakes by filing a revised return.
What Should Taxpayers Do Now?
Taxpayers are advised to take the following steps:
Compare their income tax return details with AIS and Form 26AS
Carefully review all documents related to income, investments, and deductions
If any mistake is found, file a revised return before December 31
If everything is correct, wait patiently and avoid making unnecessary changes
