How to Check ITR Status

Understanding how to check ITR status is a critical step for every taxpayer in India who has filed their Income Tax Return. Whether you're a salaried professional, a self-employed individual, or a business owner, verifying the status of your ITR ensures that your return has been successfully processed by the Income Tax Department. This verification confirms whether your return has been received, accepted, or if any further action is required—such as responding to a notice or submitting additional documents.

The ITR status serves as a digital receipt of your tax compliance. It reflects the processing stage of your return, from acknowledgment to verification, and ultimately to refund processing (if applicable). Failing to check your ITR status can lead to missed deadlines, delayed refunds, or unintended penalties due to unaddressed discrepancies. In an era where digital compliance is mandatory, knowing how to accurately and efficiently check your ITR status empowers you to maintain financial transparency and avoid unnecessary complications with tax authorities.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to checking your ITR status, along with best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and frequently asked questions. By the end of this tutorial, you will have full confidence in monitoring your tax filing progress and taking timely action when needed.

Step-by-Step Guide

Checking your ITR status is a straightforward process, but accuracy and attention to detail are essential. Below is a detailed, sequential guide to help you verify your ITR status using official government portals and digital tools.

Method 1: Using the Income Tax e-Filing Portal

The most reliable and official method to check your ITR status is through the Income Tax Department’s e-Filing portal. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Open your web browser and navigate to https://www.incometax.gov.in.
2. Click on the “Login” button located at the top-right corner of the homepage.
3. Enter your User ID (PAN), password, and the CAPTCHA code displayed on the screen. Then click “Login.”
4. Once logged in, hover over the “My Returns/Forms” tab in the top navigation menu.
5. From the dropdown menu, select “View Filed Returns.”
6. You will be redirected to a page displaying a list of all your previously filed returns, including the financial year, return type (e.g., ITR-1, ITR-2), and the date of filing.
7. Locate the return for which you want to check the status and click on the “Status” link under the “Status” column.
8. A detailed status page will open, showing the current processing stage—such as “Return Submitted,” “Return Under Processing,” “Return Verified,” or “Refund Processed.”
9. If your return has been processed and a refund is due, you will also see the refund amount and the date it was credited to your bank account.

Ensure that you are using the correct PAN and password. If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password” option to reset it via your registered mobile number or email address.

Method 2: Using the e-Filing Portal via Acknowledgment Number

If you do not have login credentials or prefer not to log in, you can still check your ITR status using the acknowledgment number generated after filing your return.

1. Visit the official e-Filing portal at https://www.incometax.gov.in.
2. On the homepage, scroll down to the “Quick Links” section and click on “Check ITR Status.”
3. You will be redirected to a new page that asks for two pieces of information:
• Your PAN (Permanent Account Number)
• The Assessment Year for which the return was filed

4. Enter your PAN and select the correct Assessment Year from the dropdown menu.
5. Click “Submit.”
6. The system will display your ITR status without requiring a login.

This method is particularly useful for taxpayers who filed their returns through a Chartered Accountant or tax software and may not have immediate access to their e-Filing account. However, this method only works if the return was filed using your PAN and the system has registered the acknowledgment.

Method 3: Checking via SMS

The Income Tax Department offers an SMS-based service to check ITR status for taxpayers who prefer mobile-based communication.

1. Open your mobile messaging app.
2. Compose a new message.
3. Type: ITNS PAN (e.g., ITNS ABCDE1234F).
4. Send this message to 567678 or 56161.
5. You will receive an automated SMS reply with the current status of your ITR, including whether it has been processed and if a refund has been issued.

This method is convenient for quick checks, but it provides limited details compared to the web portal. It is also subject to network delays and may not be available during system maintenance.

Method 4: Using the NSDL or UTIITSL Portal

If you filed your ITR through a third-party provider like NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited) or UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited), you can also check your status through their respective portals.

For NSDL:

1. Go to https://www.tin-nsdl.com.
2. Click on “Services” and then select “Income Tax Return Status.”
3. Enter your PAN and Assessment Year.
4. Click “Submit.”
5. The status will be displayed on the screen.

For UTIITSL:

1. Visit https://www.utiitsl.com.
2. Navigate to the “Taxation” section and select “ITR Status.”
3. Enter your PAN and Assessment Year.
4. Click “Check Status.”

These portals are especially helpful if you filed your return through an e-filing intermediary. The status displayed here is synchronized with the Income Tax Department’s database and is equally reliable.

Understanding ITR Status Codes

When you check your ITR status, you may encounter various status codes. Understanding these helps you determine the next steps:

• Return Submitted – Your return has been successfully uploaded but has not yet been processed.
• Return Under Processing – The department is reviewing your return for accuracy and consistency. This may take 1–6 months.
• Return Verified – Your return has been successfully processed and verified. No further action is needed unless a refund is pending.
• Refund Processed – Your refund has been approved and sent to your bank account. The date of credit will be displayed.
• Refund Dispatched – The refund has been sent via NEFT or cheque and is in transit.
• Defective Return – The department has identified an error or missing information. You must respond within the given timeframe (usually 15 days) to rectify the issue.
• Return Disposed – The return has been processed and closed. This typically means no refund is due or the refund has been settled.

If your status shows “Defective Return,” it is critical to act immediately. Log in to the e-Filing portal, view the defect notice, and file a revised return or submit the requested documents.

Best Practices

Checking your ITR status is not a one-time task. To ensure compliance, avoid delays, and maximize your chances of receiving a refund without issues, follow these best practices:

1. File Your Return Early

Filing your ITR well before the due date—typically July 31 for individuals—gives the department more time to process your return. Late filings are often queued behind early submissions, which can delay your refund. Early filing also allows you to detect and correct errors before the deadline passes.

2. Keep Your Documents Organized

Maintain a digital folder containing all supporting documents used in your return—Form 16, bank statements, investment proofs, rent receipts, and TDS certificates. These may be required if your return is selected for scrutiny or if you need to respond to a notice.

3. Verify Your Bank Account Details

Ensure that the bank account linked to your PAN for refund purposes is active, operational, and correctly entered in your ITR form. Incorrect account numbers or inactive accounts can lead to refund failures. Double-check the IFSC code and account holder name to match your bank records exactly.

4. Regularly Monitor Your ITR Status

Do not assume your return has been processed just because you filed it. Check your ITR status at least once every two weeks during the peak processing months (August to December). This helps you catch delays or defects early.

5. Enable Email and SMS Alerts

When registering or updating your profile on the e-Filing portal, ensure that your email address and mobile number are verified and active. The department sends automated alerts for key events such as acknowledgment receipt, defect notices, and refund credits. Missing these alerts can result in missed deadlines.

6. Avoid Multiple Filings

Filing more than one return for the same assessment year can cause confusion in the system and lead to your return being flagged as duplicate. Always file one return per year, and if you need to correct it, use the “Revised Return” option under “My Returns/Forms.”

7. Respond Promptly to Notices

If your status changes to “Defective Return” or “Notice Issued,” do not ignore it. The department provides a specific timeframe (usually 15 days) to respond. Failure to respond may result in your return being treated as invalid, leading to potential penalties or reassessment.

8. Use the Same PAN Across All Platforms

Ensure that your PAN is consistently used across all financial platforms—banking, mutual funds, insurance, and employer records. Inconsistencies can trigger mismatches in TDS records, leading to processing delays.

9. Keep a Record of Acknowledgment Number

After filing, you receive an ITR-V acknowledgment number. Save this number in a secure location. It is your proof of filing and may be required when contacting authorities or filing a grievance.

10. Reconcile TDS with Form 26AS

Before filing, always cross-check your TDS deductions with Form 26AS (your tax credit statement). Discrepancies between what your employer deducted and what’s reflected in Form 26AS are common causes of defective returns. Use the “View Form 26AS” option on the e-Filing portal to download and compare.

Tools and Resources

Several digital tools and resources are available to simplify the process of checking ITR status and managing your tax compliance. Below is a curated list of official and trusted platforms:

1. Income Tax e-Filing Portal

https://www.incometax.gov.in is the primary platform for all ITR-related activities. It allows you to file returns, view status, download ITR-V, access Form 26AS, and respond to notices. Always use this portal for official communication.

2. Form 26AS (Tax Credit Statement)

Form 26AS provides a consolidated view of all taxes deducted at source (TDS), tax collected at source (TCS), and advance tax paid by you. Access it via the e-Filing portal under “View Form 26AS.” This tool is indispensable for verifying TDS accuracy before filing your return.

3. NSDL TIN Portal

https://www.tin-nsdl.com offers additional services for taxpayers, including ITR status lookup, TDS reconciliation, and PAN-related services. It is especially useful for users who filed through NSDL intermediaries.

4. UTIITSL Portal

https://www.utiitsl.com provides similar services to NSDL and is the authorized partner for ITR filing in many regions. Their portal includes ITR status tracking, e-verification, and document upload options.

5. e-Filing Mobile App

The Income Tax Department has launched an official mobile application called “Income Tax India e-Filing.” Available on Android and iOS, this app allows you to check ITR status, view Form 26AS, receive alerts, and even e-verify your return using Aadhaar OTP or net banking. Download it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

6. Aadhaar-Based e-Verification

After filing your return, you must e-verify it within 120 days. The fastest and most secure method is through Aadhaar OTP. Use the e-Filing portal or mobile app to generate an OTP sent to your registered mobile number linked with Aadhaar. This eliminates the need to physically mail ITR-V forms.

7. TDS Reconciliation Tools

Third-party platforms like ClearTax, Tax2Win, and H&R Block offer free TDS reconciliation tools that compare your Form 16 with Form 26AS. These tools highlight mismatches and help you prepare accurate returns, reducing the risk of defects.

8. ITR Filing Software

Many taxpayers use certified ITR filing software such as Quicko, Zoho Books, or Taxmann. These tools auto-populate your details from Form 16 and bank statements, reduce manual errors, and provide status tracking features. Ensure the software is certified by the Income Tax Department.

9. National Financial Switch (NFS) for Refund Tracking

If your refund is delayed, you can contact your bank’s customer service and ask them to trace the transaction using the NFS ID provided in the refund status on the e-Filing portal. This helps identify if the issue lies with the department or the bank.

10. Grievance Redressal Portal

If you face persistent issues with your ITR status or refund, use the official grievance portal at https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal. Submit a detailed complaint with your PAN, assessment year, and reference number. Responses are typically provided within 10–15 working days.

Real Examples

Understanding how ITR status works becomes clearer when viewed through real-life scenarios. Below are three detailed examples that illustrate common situations and how to resolve them.

Example 1: Salaried Employee Receives Refund

Rahul, a software engineer earning ₹12 lakhs annually, filed his ITR for AY 2023–24 on July 15, 2023. He had TDS of ₹1.4 lakhs deducted by his employer, but after claiming deductions under Section 80C and 80D, his tax liability reduced to ₹1.1 lakhs. He was eligible for a refund of ₹30,000.

On August 5, 2023, he checked his ITR status via the e-Filing portal and saw “Return Submitted.” By September 12, the status changed to “Return Under Processing.” On November 20, it updated to “Refund Processed,” and the amount of ₹30,000 was credited to his bank account on November 25.

Rahul’s experience highlights the typical timeline: 2–3 months for processing and another 5–7 days for bank credit. He kept his bank details accurate and checked his status weekly, ensuring he didn’t miss any communication.

Example 2: Defective Return Due to TDS Mismatch

Meera, a freelance graphic designer, filed her ITR for AY 2023–24 in October 2023. She received an email and SMS alert stating “Defective Return” with the reason: “TDS deducted by client not reflected in Form 26AS.”

Meera logged into the e-Filing portal, viewed the defect notice, and discovered that her client had deposited TDS under a different PAN. She contacted the client, who provided a corrected TDS certificate and filed a revised TDS return.

Once the corrected Form 26AS was updated (after 10–15 days), Meera filed a revised return using the “Revised Return” option. She uploaded the new TDS certificate and submitted the revised ITR. Her status changed to “Return Verified” within 3 weeks.

This example underscores the importance of reconciling Form 26AS before filing and acting promptly on defect notices.

Example 3: Delayed Refund Due to Incorrect Bank Details

Arjun, a retired government employee, filed his ITR for AY 2023–24 and received a refund of ₹45,000. The status showed “Refund Processed” on December 1, but the amount never reached his account.

Arjun checked his bank statement and confirmed no credit. He then revisited the e-Filing portal and noticed the bank account number listed was outdated—he had changed his account after retirement but forgot to update it in his ITR.

He submitted a request for refund reissue via the grievance portal, attaching proof of his new account (passbook copy and canceled cheque). Within 12 days, the department issued a fresh refund to his updated account.

This case demonstrates why it’s crucial to keep your financial details updated with the tax department, even after major life changes.

FAQs

How long does it take to process an ITR?

Typically, ITR processing takes between 1 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the return and the volume of filings. Returns filed early (April–June) are usually processed faster than those filed near the deadline.

Can I check ITR status without logging in?

Yes, you can check your ITR status without logging in by visiting the e-Filing portal’s “Check ITR Status” page and entering your PAN and Assessment Year.

What does “Return Verified” mean?

“Return Verified” means your ITR has been successfully processed, all details have been validated, and no further action is required from your side. If a refund is due, it will be processed next.

What should I do if my ITR status shows “Defective Return”?

Log in to the e-Filing portal, view the defect notice, and rectify the issue within 15 days. You may need to file a revised return or submit missing documents. Failure to respond may result in your return being treated as invalid.

Why is my refund delayed even though the status says “Refund Processed”?

“Refund Processed” means the department has approved the refund, but the bank transfer may take 3–7 working days. If it’s longer, check your bank account details on the portal. If incorrect, submit a request for reissue.

Can I file a revised return after checking my ITR status?

Yes, you can file a revised return at any time before the end of the assessment year or before the completion of assessment, whichever is earlier. Use the “Revised Return” option under “My Returns/Forms.”

Is it necessary to e-verify my ITR?

Yes, e-verification is mandatory. Without it, your return is considered incomplete. You can e-verify using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by mailing the signed ITR-V form.

What is the difference between Assessment Year and Financial Year?

Financial Year (FY) is the year in which income is earned (e.g., April 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024). Assessment Year (AY) is the year following the FY in which the income is assessed and taxed (e.g., AY 2024–25 for FY 2023–24).

Can I check ITR status for previous years?

Yes, the e-Filing portal retains records of all filed returns for the past several years. You can view status for any assessment year from the “View Filed Returns” section.

What happens if I don’t check my ITR status?

If you don’t check your ITR status, you may miss critical updates such as defect notices, refund credits, or reassessment notices. This could lead to missed deadlines, penalties, or loss of refund entitlement.

How do I know if my ITR has been accepted?

Your ITR is considered accepted when the status shows “Return Verified” or “Refund Processed.” You will also receive an email and SMS confirmation if your contact details are updated.

Can I change my bank details after filing ITR?

You cannot change bank details after filing. However, if your refund fails due to incorrect details, you can request a reissue via the grievance portal with supporting documents.

Is there a helpline for ITR status queries?

No helpline services are available. All queries must be addressed through the official e-Filing portal, grievance system, or by visiting a local Taxpayer Service Center.

Conclusion

Knowing how to check ITR status is not merely a procedural task—it is a vital component of responsible financial management in India. Whether you are a first-time filer or a seasoned taxpayer, regularly monitoring your ITR status ensures that your tax compliance remains accurate, timely, and trouble-free. The process is designed to be user-friendly, with multiple accessible channels including the official e-Filing portal, SMS, and mobile applications. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this tutorial, adhering to best practices, leveraging trusted tools, and learning from real-world examples, you can navigate the ITR landscape with confidence.

Remember, delays in checking your status can lead to missed refunds, unresolved notices, or even reassessment notices. Proactive monitoring, accurate documentation, and prompt responses to system alerts are your best defenses against tax-related complications. As digital systems continue to evolve, staying informed and engaged with your tax filings will not only save you time and money but also reinforce your role as a responsible citizen contributing to the nation’s fiscal health.

Make it a habit to check your ITR status after every filing. Keep your records updated, verify your bank details, and use the official portals for all communications. With the right approach, checking your ITR status becomes not just a chore, but a seamless part of your annual financial routine.