Income Tax Returns Filing FY 23–24: As we end another financial year, it’s time for all of us—individuals and corporations across India—to shift our focus to the crucial task of filing our income tax returns (ITR). Income tax, a critical component of our nation’s fiscal framework, is a tax paid on income and profits earned by people and entities. It provides the government with the resources needed to fund essential public services and drive national development.
By filing an Income Tax Return (ITR), taxpayers in India report their income and taxes paid to the government to ensure transparency, accountability, and the proper functioning of the nation’s economic system. As the tax season is officially here, filing an income tax return (ITR) for the fiscal year 2023–24 and assessment year 2024–25 has begun, with July 31st, 2024 (Wednesday) as the deadline.
The process of filing an ITR has become more digitalised and streamlined today, with the Income Tax (IT) Department opening its portal for individuals to submit their forms. Now, taxpayers in India have the option to file their income tax returns (ITR) either online or offline. However, navigating this choice can be confusing, as each has its advantages and considerations. Explore the key factors below that can help one determine the best option for tax filing needs.
Online ITR Filing:
The rise of digital technology has changed the ITR filing process, presenting a convenient and time-saving option for taxpayers. However, this approach does come with some drawbacks for individuals who don’t have access to technology or have security concerns. Despite this, here are some benefits:
i. Convenience and time saving:
The online ITR filing process offers taxpayers unparalleled convenience, allowing them to access the e-filing portal from the comfort of their homes or offices, thereby eliminating the need to physically visit a tax office or accountant, making the process more efficient, and saving time. .
ii. Faster processing:
The electronic submission of ITR forms through the online portal enables quicker processing by the Income Tax Department, leading to faster processing of refunds, if applicable.
iii. Reduced errors:
Online filing platforms often have built-in validation checks and error-catching mechanisms, which can help minimize the risk of mistakes in the ITR form. This can streamline the overall filing process and reduce the likelihood of delays or additional scrutiny.
iv. Paperless approach:
The online ITR filing system is a more environmentally friendly option, as it eliminates the need for physical paperwork and documentation, thereby aligning with the government’s push towards a digital and paperless economy.
Offline ITR Filing:
While the digital age has brought about a significant shift towards online tax filing, the traditional offline method still holds its advantages. Despite the increased risks of manual errors, Prolonged processing timesand complex manual correction processesthe offline ITR filing approach offers several benefits that taxpayers should consider.
i. Control:
Filing taxes offline provides individuals with more hands-on control over the entire process as some individuals are relaxed in physically completing the forms, reviewing them, and mailing them directly to the tax authorities.
ii. Personal assistance:
For first-time taxpayers or those who prefer face-to-face interactions and require specialized guidance, the offline ITR filing option may be more suitable, as a visit to a tax professional or an authorized tax return preparer can provide personalized assistance, ensuring accurate filing
iii. Accessibility to taxpayers who have limited access to technology:
Many don’t have access to reliable internet connectivity or electronic devices, so offline filing is suitable and accommodates individuals who may not be tech-savvy or who prefer to handle paperwork more traditionally.
iv. Avoiding electronic errors:
Electronic filing may be prone to errors, such as data input errors or technological difficulties. For people who are concerned about making mistakes in an online setting, paper filing provides actual documentation that may be inspected before submission.
v. Backup documentation:
Individuals who file offline can physically gather and arrange their supporting documents. This is especially useful for people who like to preserve hard copies of their tax records for record-keeping purposes.
Therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to the Income Tax Return filing process. Both, the online and offline ITR filing options have both merits and drawbacks, with the choice ultimately depending on one’s preferences, technological capabilities, and the required level of assistance.