Before you file: know your number
Filing goes smoothly when you already know what you owe and under which regime. Run your salary through the tax calculator first, compare old vs new, and note the regime that costs you less. You'll select that same regime while filing — so this one check saves you money and second-guessing later.
Step by step on the portal
Log in
Sign in at the income tax e-filing portal using your PAN as the user ID.
Pick the form
Choose the right ITR form and select AY 2026-27 for income earned in FY 2025-26.
Check pre-filled data
Verify the pre-filled salary, TDS and bank details against your Form 16 and AIS.
Choose regime & submit
Select old or new regime, confirm the tax, submit, then e-verify to finish.
Which ITR form do you need?
| Form | Who it's for |
|---|---|
| ITR-1 (Sahaj) | Salary, one house property and other sources, income within the prescribed limit |
| ITR-2 | Capital gains, more than one house property, or higher income; no business income |
| ITR-3 | Income from business or profession |
| ITR-4 (Sugam) | Presumptive business or professional income |
Most salaried people use ITR-1. If you have capital gains from shares or mutual funds, you'll usually need ITR-2 instead.
Documents to keep ready
- Form 16 from your employer, and Form 26AS / AIS for TDS and reported income.
- Bank interest certificates and any capital gains statements.
- Proof for deductions if you file under the old regime — 80C, 80D, HRA and home loan interest.
- Your bank account details for any refund, and Aadhaar for e-verification.
For most individuals who don't need an audit, the due date to file for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27) is 31 July 2026. Dates can be extended, so confirm the current deadline on the official portal before you file.
Don't forget to verify
Submitting the return isn't the end — an unverified return is treated as not filed. Verify it, usually via Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by posting a signed ITR-V. Do this promptly within the allowed window so your filing is complete and any refund can be processed.
This guide is general information, not personalised tax advice. For complex situations — capital gains, foreign income, business accounts — a qualified professional is worth the fee. See our disclaimer.
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
What is the last date to file ITR for FY 2025-26?
For most individual taxpayers who don't need an audit, the due date to file the return for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27) is 31 July 2026. Always confirm the current date on the income tax portal, as it can be extended.
Which ITR form should a salaried person use?
Most salaried individuals with income from salary, one house property and other sources use ITR-1 (Sahaj), provided total income is within the prescribed limit and they have no capital gains or business income.
Can I choose the tax regime while filing ITR?
Yes. The new regime is the default, but you can opt for the old regime while filing if it results in lower tax. Compare both before you file.
Do I need to verify my ITR after filing?
Yes. Filing is not complete until you verify the return, usually via Aadhaar OTP, net banking or by sending a signed ITR-V. E-verification should be done within the time allowed.