ITR Refund: Status, Delays, and How to Track Yours

The deadline for filing income tax returns (ITR) for this fiscal year passed on 16 September, and while the majority of refunds have already been processed by the income tax department, some taxpayers are still awaiting their refunds. If you’re among them, this guide will help you understand the expected timeline, reasons for delays, and how to track your ITR refund.

How Long Does It Take to Receive an ITR Refund?

Once your ITR submission is confirmed, the income tax department generally begins processing refunds, which are typically credited to the taxpayer’s bank account within 4-5 weeks.

According to the department, “Usually, it takes 4-5 weeks for the refund to be credited to the account of the taxpayer.” However, delays can occur due to verification issues, mismatched bank details, or inaccurate information provided during filing.

Refund processing starts only after e-verification of the return. If your bank account is pre-validated, you may receive updates faster. The tax department advises checking for discrepancies and monitoring emails for notifications if the refund is not received within the standard timeframe.

“If a refund is not received during this period, taxpayers should check for intimation regarding discrepancies in ITR and monitor emails for notifications from the IT department,” the I-T department stated.

How to Check Your ITR Refund Status

You can easily track your refund status online by following these steps:

1. Visit the Income Tax e-Filing portal at eportal.incometax.gov.in.
2. Log in using your user ID and password.
3. Navigate to the ‘e-File’ tab, select ‘Income Tax Returns’, then click ‘View Filed Returns’.
4. Your current and past ITR statuses will appear on the screen.
5. Click ‘View details’ to see the status of your refund.

Common Reasons for ITR Refund Delays

1. Incorrect Bank Account Details

Refunds cannot be processed if incorrect bank details are submitted. Double-check your account number and IFSC code before filing. Pre-validating your bank account on the income tax portal can prevent delays. Any changes to bank details after submission may further postpone the refund.

2. Aadhaar-PAN Linking Issues

A mismatch between Aadhaar and PAN can delay refunds. Ensure your PAN is correctly linked to your Aadhaar before filing to avoid any issues.

3. Incorrect Claims or False Information

Claims requiring additional documentation, or inaccurate claims, can slow down the process. If inflated refunds or false information are detected, the tax authority may issue notices for repayment and thoroughly review your return. Always provide accurate claims to prevent delays.

4. Inconsistent Information

Discrepancies between Form 26AS, Annual Information Statement (AIS), or Form 16 can result in delayed refunds. The department will process your refund only after verifying the details.

5. Refund Processing Time

Refunds are processed only after electronic verification of the ITR. If not received within the standard timeframe, check for notifications regarding discrepancies and monitor your email for updates from the IT department.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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