Introduction
Filing an income tax return (ITR) in India is a mandatory financial obligation for individuals and companies. Whether you are an employee, self-employed, or a businessperson, knowing the tax filing process can save you from penalties and even reduce your expenses through deductions. In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of filing your taxes in India for 2025.

Who Needs to File a Tax Return?
According to the Income Tax Act, filing a tax return is mandatory if:

• Your annual income exceeds the basic exemption limit (₹2.5 lakh for individuals under 60, ₹3 lakh for senior citizens, and ₹5 lakh for super senior citizens).
• You have earned income from more than one source, such as salary, freelancing, or investments.
• You own assets abroad or earn income outside India.
• You wish to claim tax refund or forward loss to subsequent years.
• Step-by-Step Instruction to File Your Tax Return

Step 1: Collect Relevant Documents

As a prerequisite before filing, make the following collections:

• PAN Card & Aadhaar Card (compulsory for verification purpose)
• Form 16 (submitted by your employer)
• Form 26AS (tax credit report from the Income Tax Department)
• Bank Statements (for interest receipts)
• Investment Proofs (for deductions against Section 80C, 80D, etc.)
• Rental Income or Property Documents (if any)

Step 2: Select the Right ITR Form

The government offers varying ITR forms depending on the taxpayer category:

• ITR-1 (Sahaj): For salaried taxpayers whose income is less than or equal to ₹50 lakh
• ITR-2: For those having income from capital gains, more than one house property, or foreign sources
• ITR-3: For professionals and businessmen
• ITR-4 (Sugam): For small businesses and freelancers going for presumptive taxation

Step 3: Calculate Your Tax Liability

Use the FY 2024-25 income tax slabs to arrive at your total tax liability. If you have Section 80C (investments in EPF, PPF, ELSS), Section 80D (health insurance), or other sections deductions, reduce them from your gross income to arrive at taxable income.

Step 4: Pay Any Outstanding Tax

If your tax deducted at source (TDS) is short, pay the balance as self-assessment tax on the Income Tax e-filing portal using Challan 280.

Step 5: File Your ITR Online

To file your tax return online:

• Login to the Income Tax e-Filing Portal.
• Choose ‘File Income Tax Return’ and select the appropriate assessment year.
• Choose the right ITR form depending on your income type.
• Provide your income details and claim deductions.
• Check the pre-filled information from Form 26AS and Form 16.
• e-File and e-verify through Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or DSC.

Step 6: Self-Verify Your Tax Return

Once you submit your return, you have 30 days within which you should verify it. You can electronically verify using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by mail a signed copy of ITR-V to CPC Bangalore.
Some Common Mistakes to Avoid :

• Selecting a wrong ITR form
• Entering wrong bank details (resulting in delayed refunds)
• Forgetting to check the return
• Not reporting other income sources
• Forgetting tax-saving allowances

Conclusion

It is easier to file your tax return in India now with the e-filing website and electronic verification processes. Follow these steps, and you will be compliant, avoid penalties, and even receive tax refunds quickly. Keep yourself informed about current tax regulations and utilize online software for correct filing.
Begin your tax filing today and don’t let it be too late!