Income tax returns (ITR) filing: Last day looms, here is a step by step guide

Income tax returns (ITR) filing: There is barely any time left now to file ITR returns. Those who are banking on reports that are saying the deadline will be extended again should not gamble on it happening. Currently, the last date is August 31 and everyone should file their tax returns well before that. Doing so will also open the opportunity for taxpayers to rectify any mistake they may make wile submitting their returns. Here is a step by step guide to Uploading income tax returns filing: (Image: Reuters)

1. Download the income tax returns preparation software (form) for the relevant assessment year to your PC / Laptop from the "Downloads" page on Income tax website. (Representative image: Reuters)

2. Gather all the information regarding your income, tax payments, deductions etc. Pre-populate the personal details and tax payments/TDS by clicking on the 'Pre-fill' button.  (Representative image: Reuters)

3. Enter all data and click on 'Calculate' to compute the tax and interest liability and final figure of Refund or Tax payableIf Tax is payable- remember to pay immediately and enter the details in appropriate schedule. Repeat above step so that tax payable becomes zero. Generate and save the Income Tax Return data in XML format in the desired path/place on your PC/Laptop.  (Representative image: Reuters)

4. Login to e-Filing website with User ID, Password, Date of Birth /Date of Incorporation and enter the Captcha code. Go to e-File and click on "Upload Return". Select the appropriate ITR, Assessment Year and XML file previously saved (using browse button).  (Representative image: Reuters)

5. Upload Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), if applicable. Please ensure the DSC is registered with e-Filing.Click on "Submit" button. (Representative image: Reuters)

6. On successful submission, ITR-V would be displayed (if DSC is not used). Click on the link and download the ITR-V. ITR-V will also be sent to the registered email. If ITR is uploaded with DSC, the Return Filing process is complete.  

7. However, if the return is not uploaded with DSC, the ITR-V Form should be printed, signed and submitted to CPC within 120 days from the date of e-Filing. The return will be processed only upon receipt of signed ITR-V. Please check your emails/SMS for reminders on non-receipt of ITR-V.

Upload Income Tax Return process is complete now.