Despite the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing deadline of 16 september 2025, thousands of taxpayers across india are still waiting for their refunds. Even after nearly two and a half months, many are unsure why the refund has not been credited to their bank accounts. Here’s a breakdown of the common reasons for refund delays and what you can do about it.

1. Errors or Mismatches in ITR

· Incorrect bank account details, PAN number mismatches, or wrong personal information can lead to refund delays.

· Even minor discrepancies, such as an extra space in your name, can cause processing issues.

· Solution: Verify your ITR filing details on the Income Tax Department portal and correct them if necessary.

2. ITR Under Scrutiny or Selected for Verification

· Refunds can be delayed if your ITR is under review or selected for scrutiny by the Income Tax Department.

· Verification may include cross-checking income sources, deductions, or tax credits claimed in your return.

· Solution: Cooperate with the IT department, provide required documents promptly, and track your case using the e-filing portal.

3. TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) Mismatch

· Delays often occur when TDS claims do not match the statements filed by employers or deductors.

· This can happen if:

o Your Form 16/Form 26AS does not reflect the correct TDS

o Employers delayed TDS deposits

· Solution: Verify your Form 26AS and raise corrections with your employer or deductor if discrepancies exist.

4. Processing Delays at the IT Department

· Refund delays can also be due to internal processing backlogs, especially during peak ITR filing season.

· The department receives millions of returns, which are processed in phases.

· Solution: Patience is key, but you can track refund status using the e-filing portal or the TIN NSDL website.

5. Refunds for Returns Filed Late or Revised

· If you filed your return after the deadline or submitted a revised return, your refund may take longer.

· Solution: Ensure all documentation and corrections are accurate to avoid additional delays.

How to Track Your Refund

1. Via Income Tax E-Filing Portal

o Log in to https://www.incometax.gov.in

o Navigate to ‘View Returns/Forms’ → ‘Refund Status’

2. Using TIN NSDL Portal

o Visit https://tin.tin.nsdl.com

o Enter PAN, assessment year, and select the ITR type

3. Check bank Account

o Ensure your bank account linked to ITR is active and correct for electronic transfer of refund.

When to Contact the IT Department

· If your refund is pending for more than 6–8 weeks after ITR processing, you can:

o Call the Income Tax Helpline: 1800 180 1961

o File a grievance through the e-filing portal under ‘Rectification / Refund Reissue’

Final Takeaway

Refund delays are common and usually caused by data mismatches, scrutiny, TDS issues, or processing backlogs. By tracking your ITR, verifying bank and PAN details, and cooperating with the tax authorities, you can ensure your refund is processed smoothly.

Remember: Patience and vigilance are key — most refunds are credited within a few weeks of processing, but issues can be resolved faster by proactive follow-up.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.