Every year, millions of Indian taxpayers file their Income Tax Returns (ITR) to ensure compliance with the country's tax rules. For the assessment year 2024-25, a record 7.28 million ITRs were filed till July 31, an increase of 7.5% over the previous year. Notably, 72% (5.27 crore) of these tax returns were filed under the new tax regime, while 28% (2.01 crore) opted for the old regime.

However, filing your tax return is only the first step. Checking the status of your ITR is essential to confirm processing, identify any discrepancies, and ensure timely refunds.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to check your ITR status, explains why it’s so important, and outlines the steps to resolve common issues. Read on to learn everything you need to track and manage your tax returns efficiently.

Why Tracking ITR Status Matters 

Tracking your Income Tax Return (ITR) is crucial for smooth tax compliance, as it automatically ensures everything is in order. Here are a few pointers on why monitoring your ITR status is a must:

1. Legal Compliance

• Verifying your ITR status ensures your return has been properly filed, checked, and completed, protecting you from incomplete and non-compliant filings.
• Incomplete submissions can result in notices from the income tax authorities, which timely status checks could easily avoid.

2. Expedite Refund Processing

• ITR refunds will only be disbursed after document verification and assessment of the ITR.
• Tracking your status helps you stay informed of delays or discrepancies so you can take corrective action when needed.

3. Maintain Financial Records

• Your ITR is an important financial document for various purposes, including loan applications, visa processing, and investment approvals.
• Updating accurate documentation ensures that all needed information is up-to-date and available whenever required.

Before you start tracking, gather essential details like your PAN number, acknowledgment number, and assessment year information to streamline the process. Knowing your deadlines and keeping records organized will help you avoid unnecessary complications.

Prerequisites for Checking ITR Status 

Before you start tracking the status of your Income Tax Return (ITR), you must have the important documentation ready. This not only streamlines the process but also helps you meet important deadlines. To check your ITR status, you will need to keep a few details handy:

Essential Information to Keep Ready

• PAN Card: Your Permanent Account Number (PAN) serves as your primary identifier for all tax-related transactions.
• ITR Acknowledgement Number: After successfully e-filing your return, you will receive this unique 15-digit number via email to your registered email address.
• Mobile Number: Make sure you have access to the cell phone number linked to your e-filing account, as you will need it for OTP verification.

Important Deadlines to Remember

• Filing Due Date: Generally, the deadline for filing ITR is July 31 of each assessment year unless the Income Tax Department announces an extension, so taxpayers should always check their website.
• ITR-V Verification Window: If you filed your tax return without a digital signature, you must verify your ITR within 30 days of the date of filing. This change, which came into force on August 1, 2022, will significantly shorten the window for verification. Verification can be done electronically or by sending a signed physical copy to the Central Processing Center (CPC).

Create a special folder (digital or physical) where you keep your confirmation numbers, filed tax returns, and verification receipts so you can easily access them when needed. Being well-prepared and organized simplifies tracking and ensures that you are prepared for any follow-up.

With these details in hand, you’ll be well prepared to check the status of your ITR.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check ITR Status 

Tracking the status of your Income Tax Return (ITR) can be done hassle-free through the Income Tax e-Filing Portal. Two options are provided below for those with a registered account and those who wish to access the information without logging in.

Method 1: Post-Login (For Registered Users)

This method is ideal if you have an existing account on the Income Tax e-Filing Portal.

1. Visit the Portal
Go to the official Income Tax e-Filing Portal.

2. Log In
Use your PAN, password, and captcha to log into your account.

3. Access Filed Returns
Navigate to: e-File > Income Tax Returns > View Filed Returns.

5. Select Assessment Year (AY)
Choose the relevant assessment year and click on View Details.

6. Check Status
The current status of your ITR will be displayed on the screen.

Method 2: Pre-Login (Quick Access)

If you don’t have an account or prefer quick access, use this method.

1. Go to Homepage
On the portal’s homepage, find “View ITR Status” under the Quick Links section.

2. Enter Required Details
Provide your 15-digit acknowledgment number and registered mobile number.

3. OTP Verification
Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number to proceed.

4. View Your Status
Once verified, the current status of your ITR will be displayed.

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Pro Tip: Use the portal’s Export to Excel feature to download and organize your ITR data for easy reference and recordkeeping.

Understanding the various ITR status messages will also aid you in determining if your return is processed successfully, if there is any pending verification, or further actions like submitting more documents is needed.

Decoding ITR Status Messages 

Knowing your ITR status keeps you updated on what stage your tax return is at and what steps you need to take. The following is an explanation of the most frequently used status messages and their descriptions:

Submitted and Pending Verification

• What It Means: Your return has been successfully filed but not yet verified.
• Action Needed: Complete the verification process using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by sending a signed physical copy of ITR-V to CPC Bangalore.

Successfully Verified

• What It Means: Your return has been verified, but processing is still pending.
• Typical Timeline: Processing can take 3 to 6 months, depending on the volume and complexity of the returns.

Processed

• What It Means: The Income Tax Department has successfully processed your return.
• Action Needed: Check your account to see if a refund has been made or if there is still a tax liability.

Defective Return

• What It Means: There’s an issue with your return—possibly missing information or discrepancies.
• Action Needed: Respond to the defect notice (under Section 139(9)) within 15 days to correct and resubmit your return.

Case Transferred to Assessing Officer (AO)

• What It Means: Your return has been forwarded to your jurisdictional Assessing Officer for a detailed review.
• Action Needed: Contact your Assessing Officer proactively and provide all requested documentation to avoid further complications.

By staying informed of these status messages and acting promptly, you can ensure that your return is processed smoothly and unnecessary penalties or delays are avoided.

If your status indicates a problem, the next section will guide you through effective troubleshooting steps.

Troubleshooting Common Issues 

Even if you have the right processes in place, you may encounter problems when checking or updating your ITR status. Here’s a structured guide to help you solve the most common issues:

1. Pending Verification

• Common Cause: Your ITR has been filed but not verified.
• How to Resolve: Use the Electronic Verification Code (EVC) through Net Banking, Aadhaar OTP, or your Demat account.
• Missed Physical Verification? If you have not sent your signed ITR-V within the prescribed time limit, send it again by speed post to CPC Bangalore to complete the process.

2. Status Not Updated

• Common Cause: Delays in processing, especially during the main registration period (July to September).
• How to Resolve: You can submit a complaint request directly through the e-filing portal or contact the CPC helpline to request an update.

3. Incorrect PAN or Acknowledgement Number

• Common Cause: Typing errors or lost documentation.
• How to Resolve: Retrieve these details from your registered email or download them from the "View Filed Returns" section of the e-filing portal.

Regularly tracking your ITR status and promptly addressing these issues helps ensure smooth processing and minimizes delays or complications.

Why Timely ITR Filing & Verification Matters 

Filing and verifying your Income Tax Return (ITR) on time directly impacts your financial health, tax benefits, and future compliance. Below are key reasons why timely filing is crucial:

1. Avoid Penalties

• Financial Penalties: Under section 234F, late filings can result in fines of up to ₹ 5,000, which is an unnecessary financial strain.
• Interest Accumulation: Delays may also result in additional interest on unpaid tax under sections 234A, 234B, and 234C.

2. Expedite Refund Processing

• Faster Refunds: Refunds will not be processed until your ITR has been reviewed and assessed. Delays in submission or review will slow down this process.
• Verification Window: Remember that as of August 1, 2022, the deadline for electronic verification has been shortened to 30 days from the filing date.

3. Retain Tax Benefits & Deductions

• Section 80C/80D Deductions: Investments, insurance premiums, and certain expenses are only deductible if your tax return is submitted within the deadline.

4. Carry Forward Losses

• Capital & Market Losses: Losses can only be offset against future gains if returns are filed on time.
• Business Losses: Eligible business losses can be carried forward for up to 8 years, provided they are filed in good time.

5. Minimize Scrutiny & Audit Risk

• Reduced Red Flags: Late filers are statistically more likely to attract scrutiny or audits by the tax department.
• Correct Defective Returns: If you receive a notification of an incorrect ITR, you have 15 days to correct it to avoid further penalties or complications.

Timely filing ensures compliance with regulations, maximizes tax savings opportunities, and avoids unnecessary complications.

Need Help with Your ITR? Talk to a Tax Expert on Topmate

Understanding and tracking your Income Tax Return status can be overwhelming, especially with changing rules, new verification deadlines, and potential notices from the IT Department. If you’re unsure about the next steps or want to make sure everything is filed correctly, Topmate has you covered.

Why Choose Topmate for Tax Help?

• 1:1 Expert Consultations – Connect with experienced tax professionals who guide you through filing, verification, and troubleshooting.
• Maximize Your Deductions – Get personalized advice to optimize savings under sections like 80C, 80D, and more.
• Resolve ITR Issues Quickly – Whether it's a defective return, pending refund, or AO notice, our experts help you take the right action fast.

Don’t let paperwork or delays slow you down.
Book a call on Topmate.io and get your tax questions answered in minutes. Peace of mind is just a conversation away.

Final Thoughts

Regularly monitoring your ITR status will help you stay compliant, avoid costly penalties, and speed up your refunds. By staying proactive, you can quickly resolve discrepancies, confirm completed filings, and maintain high financial credibility throughout the year.

If you find tax rules complex or need personalized advice, Topmate.io is here to help. Our Tax Consultation Experts offer one-on-one guidance, ensuring your returns are accurate and fully optimized for available deductions. Ready to simplify your tax process and gain peace of mind? Connect with Topmate.io and take charge of your finances today.