Introduction
After filing your Income Tax Return (ITR), you may be eligible to receive a refund if the tax deducted or paid exceeds your actual tax liability. Tracking your refund status online is now quick and simple through official government portals.
This blog explains how to check your income tax refund status online for Assessment Year 2025-26 (Financial Year 2024-25) with clear steps and compliance tips.
Legal Reference and Process Overview
- Income Tax Act, 1961:
- Section 237: Entitles a taxpayer to a refund if excess tax has been paid.
- Section 143(1): Intimation is issued after processing the return, confirming refund status.
- Authorized Portals:
- Income Tax e-Filing Portal (incometax.gov.in)
- TIN-NSDL Refund Tracking Portal (tin.tin.nsdl.com)
What is an Income Tax Refund?
An Income Tax Refund arises when:
- Tax deducted at source (TDS)
- Advance tax paid
- Self-assessment tax paid
is higher than the actual tax liability after completing the tax computation under the Income Tax Act, 1961.
The difference is refunded by the Income Tax Department to the taxpayer’s registered bank account.
Common Reasons for Getting an Income Tax Refund
- Excess TDS deduction on salary or professional fees.
- Advance tax paid more than required.
- Double payment of self-assessment tax.
- Deduction claims made after tax was deducted.
- Adjustments under Section 89 relief (for arrears).
- Foreign tax credits under DTAA adjustments.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check Refund Status Online
Method 1: Income Tax e-Filing Portal
Step 1: Visit https://www.incometax.gov.in.
Step 2: Log in with your PAN and password.
Step 3: Navigate to:
“My Account” > “View Filed Returns” > Select Assessment Year 2025-26.
Step 4: Click on “Acknowledgment Number” to view ITR status.
Step 5: Scroll to refund status under the “Status” section.
Method 2: NSDL TIN Refund Status Portal
Step 1: Visit https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/oltas/refund-status-pan.html.
Step 2: Enter your PAN and Assessment Year (2025-26).
Step 3: Enter Captcha Code.
Step 4: Submit and check the refund status message.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Refund?
- Normally, it takes 20–45 days after e-verification of the ITR to process and issue refunds.
- The refund is credited to the bank account linked with your PAN and e-filing profile.
- Processing times may vary depending on additional verification, high refund amounts, or compliance checks.
What If Your Refund is Delayed or Failed?
If your refund is delayed:
- Recheck if your ITR is e-verified.
- Ensure that bank account details (account number, IFSC code) are correctly updated on the portal.
- Raise a grievance on the Income Tax Portal under “Submit Grievance”.
- Alternatively, call the CPC helpline at 1800-103-4455.
In cases of failed refund due to bank account issues:
- Log in to the e-Filing portal.
- Navigate to “Services” > “Refund Reissue Request” > Update correct bank details.
Important Documents Needed for Refund Tracking
- PAN Card details
- Assessment Year information
- Acknowledgment number of ITR filing
- Access to registered email/mobile for OTPs
- Correct bank account details linked to PAN
Conclusion
Checking your income tax refund status online is simple and ensures you stay informed about your tax filings. Make sure you provide accurate bank details while filing the return, and follow up in case of delays to avoid missing out on your refunds.
Reach out Today!
Need professional help in filing your ITR and claiming your tax refunds smoothly?
Schedule a meeting with our Chartered Accountant, Anshul Goyal, by visiting:
Disclaimer: I am Anshul Goyal, a Chartered Accountant licensed with ICAI, India. The content above is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as legal or financial advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to receive a refund after filing ITR?
Usually 20–45 days after e-verification.
2. Can I check refund status without logging into the e-filing portal?
Yes, you can use the NSDL TIN refund status page with your PAN and Assessment Year.
3. What if the bank account mentioned is closed?
You can submit a “Refund Reissue Request” on the e-filing portal with updated bank details.
4. Will I get interest on delayed refunds?
Yes, under Section 244A of the Income Tax Act, you may be entitled to interest if the refund is delayed beyond a certain period.
5. Can I track refund status through mobile apps?
Yes, you can use the Income Tax Department’s official app or the Aaykar Setu app to track refund status.