Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) not only ensures legal compliance but can also lead to a refund if you've paid more tax than required. Once the ITR is submitted and verified, most taxpayers eagerly await the refund. But how long does it take for the processing of refunds? And how can you find out its status?
This year, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the ITR filing deadline to September 15, 2025, from July 31, allowing more time to individual taxpayers who don't need a tax audit.
Here's a look at how the refund process works and how you can check the status of your refund online.
How Long Does It Take To Get An ITR Refund?
Once you've successfully filed and verified your ITR, the Income Tax Department begins scrutiny and then initiates refunds, if any. The refund timeline depends on several factors, including the accuracy of your filing, mode of verification and the volume of returns being processed.
In most cases, refunds are issued within four to five weeks after your ITR is e-verified. However, during peak filing season, especially closer to the deadline, processing may take longer.
Filing your ITR early and ensuring all details are correct — like bank account information, income declared and TDS claimed — can help speed up your refund process.
How To Check ITR Refund Status
You can track your refund status using the Income Tax Department's e-filing website or the TIN NSDL portal.
Check Refund Status On Income Tax Portal
Go to the e-filing portal: https://eportal.incometax.gov.in/iec/foservices/#/login
Log in using your User ID (PAN or Aadhaar number).
Enter your password and complete the login process.
On the dashboard, click on the ‘e-File' tab, then select ‘Income Tax Returns' followed by ‘View Filed Returns'.
A list of your filed returns will appear.
Click on ‘View Details' next to the relevant assessment year.
You'll now see the full refund details, including the current status, date of issue (if processed) and other important updates.
Check Refund On TIN-NSDL Website
Visit the official NSDL website: https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/oltas/refund-status-pan.html
Enter your PAN, choose the relevant Assessment Year and fill in the Captcha code displayed on the screen.
Click on ‘Proceed' to view the latest status of your income tax refund.
Common Reasons For Delay
ITR not verified: Refund processing begins only after you verify your return. If you haven't done this, your refund will be delayed.
Mismatch in TDS details: Any discrepancy between your TDS claimed and what is reported in Form 26AS can lead to delays.
Incorrect bank details: Make sure your bank account is pre-validated and linked with your PAN and Aadhaar.
Under scrutiny: If your return is flagged for further review or scrutiny, the refund may be delayed until the process is complete.
What You Can Do For Quick Refund
Always file your ITR early and verify it promptly.
Keep your Form 26AS and Annual Information Statement (AIS) checked before filing to avoid mismatches.
Ensure your bank details are correct and your account is active.
If your refund is delayed beyond the expected timeline and there's no update online, consider raising a grievance on the e-filing portal.
Getting your ITR refund is mostly a smooth process if your return is accurate and verified on time. With a little preparation and timely follow-up, you can ensure your refund reaches you without delays.
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