The ChatGPT prompt
Please highlight and list out at least 10 things that salaried taxpayers should check before filing income-tax returns (ITR) in India in 2026.
Here’s what ChatGPT said:
If you’re a salaried taxpayer filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) in India in 2026 (for FY 2025–26 / AY 2026–27), it’s worth doing a thorough review before submitting. Errors can lead to notices, delayed refunds, or loss of eligible deductions.
Here are 15 important checks:
- Verify bank account details: Refund delays often occur because account numbers are incorrect, accounts are not validated, and IFSC details are outdated. Confirm refund-credit bank account details carefully.
- Review foreign assets and income: If you held foreign shares, received foreign income, or had overseas bank accounts, ensure the relevant schedules are completed correctly. Non-disclosure can attract significant scrutiny.
- Confirm the correct ITR form: For example, for salaried taxpayers with simple income typically ITR-1 (subject to eligibility) is applicable. Note that capital gains, multiple properties, foreign assets, or other complexities may require different forms. Using the wrong ITR form can invalidate the return.
ITR 2026: Final pre-submission checklist
Before clicking submit follow this checklist to avoid notices, reduce refund delays, and minimise the need for filing a revised return.
- Correct tax regime selected
- Deductions verified
- Bank account validated
- Correct ITR form chosen
- Return e-verified after filing
Taxpayers must consider waiting until AIS data is fully updated. Experts advise caution about filing too early because AIS and related reporting may not be fully populated immediately after the filing utilities become available. Waiting until the relevant information is reflected can reduce mismatch risks.
Further, the portal now pre-fills much more information than before, including salary, interest income, TDS credits, and some investment details. However, pre-filled data can still contain omissions or timing differences. Always verify it against your records.
For official guidance and filing, use the Income-Tax e-filing portal here — https://www.incometax.gov.in. Your ITR filing is not complete until the return is successfully e-verified.
Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes only. The views and recommendations made above are artificial intelligence (AI) generated and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
