As the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) nears, taxpayers are hurrying to gather documents and complete the process before the September 15, 2025 cut-off. While filing taxes can often feel overwhelming, having the right paperwork ready can make the entire process smoother and less stressful.
Checklist of Documents Required for ITR Filing 2025
- Form 16 – Collect this certificate from your employer (or previous employers if you switched jobs). It contains details of your salary, TDS deductions, exemptions, and claims.
- PAN Card – A mandatory document for filing ITR.
- Aadhaar Card – Ensure that your PAN is linked with Aadhaar for validation.
- Investment Proofs – Include PPF contributions, fixed deposits, insurance premium receipts, ELSS statements, and home loan interest certificates.
- Form 26AS – Download this consolidated tax statement from the TRACES portal to verify TDS and tax credits.
- Annual Information Statement (AIS) – Available on the Income Tax e-filing portal, the AIS includes details of interest income, dividends, securities transactions, and more.
Key Points to Remember While Filing ITR
- Every Indian resident must file an ITR disclosing all sources of income such as salary, capital gains, property, and interest earnings.
- Deadline: September 15, 2025. A delayed ITR can still be filed until December 31, 2025, but with penalties depending on the taxable amount.
- Taxpayers must choose between the old and new tax regimes while filing, based on their income and exemptions.
- New users must register on the Income Tax Department portal using PAN and Aadhaar. Existing users can simply log in.
- Errors made during filing can be corrected by submitting a revised return within the permitted window.
With timely preparation and the right documents in hand, filing your ITR for FY 2024-25 can be a hassle-free experience.
