Filing ITR-1 on TaxBuddy for Salary + Interest Income: Full Walkthrough

Q: Can I file ITR-1 if I have income from capital gains?

No, ITR-1 is not applicable if you have income from short-term capital gains or long-term capital gains exceeding Rs. 1.25 lakh. ITR-1 is meant for resident individuals with total income up to Rs. 50 lakh from salary, one house property, family pension, agricultural income up to Rs. 5,000, long-term capital gains under Section 112A up to Rs. 1.25 lakh, and other sources like interest or dividends. If you have income from capital gains beyond these limits, you will need to file ITR-2 or another applicable form. ITR-2 is designed for individuals with income from capital gains, foreign assets, or other sources not covered in ITR-1. You should use the appropriate form to ensure accurate reporting of all income and avoid discrepancies.

Q: What happens if I miss the deadline for filing ITR-1?

If you miss the deadline for filing ITR-1, which is September 15, 2025, for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26), you can still file a belated return by December 31, 2025. However, late filing attracts penalties under Section 234F (up to Rs. 5,000, or Rs. 1,000 if total income is below Rs. 5 lakh) and interest on any unpaid taxes under Section 234A. Filing late can also delay any refunds you may be eligible for, as belated returns are processed after timely ones.

Q: Can I file ITR-1 if I have income from a business?

No, ITR-1 is only applicable to resident individuals with income from salary, one house property, and other sources like interest, dividends, or lottery winnings (up to Rs. 10,000). If you have income from a business or profession, you need to file ITR-3 or ITR-4, depending on the type of business. ITR-3 is for individuals with business or professional income requiring detailed accounts, while ITR-4 is for presumptive taxation schemes under Sections 44AD, 44ADA, or 44AE.

Q: How can I e-verify my ITR-1?

E-verification is mandatory within 30 days of filing your ITR-1 for AY 2025-26 to avoid penalties and ensure processing. You can use one of the following methods: Aadhaar-based OTP (if Aadhaar is linked to PAN and mobile number is registered), Net Banking (through authorized banks), Electronic Verification Code (EVC) using pre-validated bank or demat account, or Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for professionals. E-verification must be completed within 30 days from the date of filing to prevent your return from being treated as invalid.

Q: What documents do I need to file ITR-1?

While ITR forms are annexure-less and you don't need to attach documents, keep the following ready for accurate filing of ITR-1 for FY 2024-25: Form 16 (from employer, showing salary and TDS), bank interest certificates (for interest on savings or FDs), proof of deductions under Section 80C (like PPF, EPF, insurance premiums, tuition fees), Form 26AS/AIS/TIS for TDS verification, and other income documents (like dividends or family pension). Download AIS from the e-filing portal and ensure all details match.

Q: Can I file ITR-1 without a PAN card?

No, a valid PAN card is mandatory for filing ITR-1 or any ITR. PAN is used for identification, tracking tax records, and linking with Aadhaar. If you do not have a PAN, apply for one via the NSDL or UTIITSL portal before filing.

Q: Is there any way to speed up the refund process?

To speed up the refund process after filing ITR-1, file early (before the deadline), ensure accuracy to avoid scrutiny, e-verify promptly within 30 days, pre-validate your bank account for direct credit, and opt for e-filing. Accurate filing with matched AIS/Form 26AS data reduces processing time to 4-6 weeks.

Q: Can I make corrections to my ITR-1 after submission?

Yes, you can file a revised return under Section 139(5) if you discover mistakes in your original ITR-1. A revised return can be filed by December 31, 2025, for AY 2025-26. Indicate it's a revised return when submitting, correcting errors like wrong income or missed deductions. After this, use ITR-U for further updates up to 2 years.

Q: Can I file ITR-1 on behalf of my spouse or children?

ITR-1 can only be filed for the individual taxpayer. As a legal guardian, you can file on behalf of a minor child, but not for your spouse unless authorized legally (e.g., power of attorney). Clubbed income (like spouse's under certain sections) must be reported in your ITR, but each adult files their own.

Q: How do I track my refund status?

To track your ITR refund status: Visit incometax.gov.in, log in with PAN and password, go to 'My Account' > 'Refund/Demand Status', select AY 2025-26. Alternatively, use the 'Where's My Refund' tool on the portal or the Income Tax mobile app. Status updates 10 days after processing; check Form 26AS for credits.

Rashmita Choudhary
Sep 12
8 min read

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is an essential part of complying with tax laws in India. Among the various ITR forms available, ITR-1 (Sahaj) is one of the most commonly used forms, especially for salaried individuals with income from multiple sources like salary, house property, or interest. The form is designed to simplify the filing process for individuals with straightforward income, and understanding how to fill it out can make tax filing much easier. This guide will walk you through the ITR-1 form, who needs to file it, and the process of filing it accurately on platforms like TaxBuddy.

Table of Contents

What is ITR-1 (Sahaj)?
Eligibility Criteria for Filing ITR-1
Documents Required for Filing ITR-1
Step-by-Step Walkthrough to File ITR-1 on TaxBuddy
Specific Tips for Salary + Interest Income Filers
Deadlines for Filing ITR-1
Conclusion
FAQs

What is ITR-1 (Sahaj)?

ITR-1, also known as Sahaj, is a simplified income tax return form for individuals who have an uncomplicated tax situation. The form is meant for taxpayers earning income primarily from salary, pension, or interest, with certain other conditions. It is the most commonly used form for those who do not have complex income sources or require a tax audit. The ITR-1 form allows for easy filing of returns and is aimed at helping taxpayers fulfill their filing obligations without the need for extensive documentation.

ITR-1 includes sections for reporting income from salary, house property, and other sources, such as interest. It is straightforward, user-friendly, and a quick way to file taxes for individuals with simple income sources.

Eligibility Criteria for Filing ITR-1

To file your taxes using ITR-1, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Income from Salary or Pension: The taxpayer must have income from salary or pension. This form is meant for individuals who have salary or pension income and are not earning income from business or profession.
Income from House Property: If you earn rental income from a property (either single or multiple properties), you are eligible to file using ITR-1, provided you don't have income from more than one house property.
Income from Other Sources: You can use ITR-1 if you earn income from other sources like interest from savings accounts, fixed deposits, or other non-business income.
Income Up to ₹50 Lakhs: The total income of the taxpayer should not exceed ₹50 lakh in a financial year.
No Capital Gains: If you have capital gains (whether short-term or long-term), you cannot use ITR-1. A different ITR form, such as ITR-2, will be required.
No Income from Business or Profession: If you are self-employed or have income from a business or profession, you must file ITR-3 or another relevant form instead of ITR-1.

Documents Required for Filing ITR-1

When filing your ITR-1, you need to gather the following documents:

Form 16: This is the most important document for salaried individuals. It is issued by your employer and provides details of your income and the tax deducted at source (TDS).
Bank Statements/Interest Certificates: If you receive interest income from your savings accounts, fixed deposits, or other financial instruments, gather the relevant interest certificates or bank statements showing interest income.
Proof of Rent Received: If you are earning income from house property, you'll need the rental receipts or a record of your property details, including rental income.
Tax Saving Investment Proofs: Documents showing deductions for investments under Section 80C (such as PPF, LIC, ELSS, etc.), 80D (insurance), or other eligible tax-saving instruments.
PAN Card: Your Permanent Account Number (PAN) is required for filing your return.
Aadhar Card: Linking your Aadhar card with your PAN is necessary for e-filing your ITR.
Other Income Documents: Any other income documents such as dividend income, agricultural income, or income from the sale of assets (if applicable) should be included.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough to File ITR-1 on TaxBuddy

Filing ITR-1 on TaxBuddy is a simple and guided process. Follow these steps to file your return efficiently:

Create an Account or Log In: First, create an account on TaxBuddy or log in if you already have one.
Select ITR-1: Choose ITR-1 (Sahaj) as your form for filing. The system will automatically present the relevant fields based on your income sources.
Fill Personal Details: Enter your basic details, including your name, PAN, Aadhar number, address, and bank account information.
Enter Income Details:
Salary and Pension: Input the income details from your Form 16 (Part A and B).
Income from House Property: Fill in the rental income details (if applicable).
Income from Other Sources: Enter income such as bank interest or dividends here.
Claim Deductions: If applicable, enter deductions under Sections 80C, 80D, and others based on your investments or expenses.
Calculate Tax Payable: TaxBuddy will automatically calculate the tax payable or refundable based on the data you’ve entered.
Review and Submit: Double-check the information for accuracy. Once confirmed, submit your return electronically.
E-Verify Your ITR: After submission, you can e-verify your return using an OTP sent to your registered mobile number or by using Aadhar-based e-verification.

Specific Tips for Salary + Interest Income Filers

If you are filing ITR-1 with income from salary and interest, here are a few specific tips:

Check TDS Details: Ensure the TDS deducted by your employer is accurately reflected in your Form 16. Also, verify that the interest income you earned matches the bank interest certificates.
Claim 80C Deductions: If you have made investments in tax-saving schemes like PPF, ELSS, or life insurance, make sure to claim them under Section 80C.
Report Correct Interest Income: Interest income from savings accounts or fixed deposits must be reported correctly to avoid discrepancies in your filing.
Consider Tax-Free Interest: If you have interest income from tax-free bonds or savings accounts, ensure that it is not included in your taxable income.

Deadlines for Filing ITR-1

For FY 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025-26), the deadline to file ITR-1 is September 15, 2025, unless extended further by the government. It's crucial to file your return before the deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

Belated Returns: If you miss the deadline, you can file a belated return by December 31, 2025, but this will attract penalties and interest on unpaid taxes.
Updated Returns: You can also file an updated return by March 31, 2030, if you need to correct any mistakes after submission.

Conclusion

Filing your ITR-1 is a crucial step in ensuring that your taxes are filed on time and accurately. With the necessary documents in hand and a clear understanding of the process, you can easily complete your filing with the help of platforms like TaxBuddy. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure compliance with the tax laws, reduce the risk of errors, and take advantage of available deductions. Remember, filing early helps avoid last-minute rush and ensures faster processing of refunds. For anyone looking for assistance in tax filing, it is highly recommended to download theTaxBuddy mobile app for a simplified, secure, and hassle-free experience.

FAQs

Q1: Can I file ITR-1 if I have income from capital gains? No, ITR-1 is meant for individuals who have income from salary, house property, or other sources, such as interest or dividends. If you have income from capital gains, whether short-term or long-term, you will need to file ITR-2 or another applicable form. ITR-2 is designed for individuals with income from capital gains, foreign assets, or business income. You should use the appropriate form to ensure accurate reporting of all income and avoid discrepancies.

Q2: What happens if I miss the deadline for filing ITR-1? If you miss the deadline for filing ITR-1, you can still file a belated return by December 31, 2025, for FY 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025-26). However, late filing attracts penalties, and you may also incur interest on any unpaid taxes. The penalty for delayed filing can be as high as ₹5,000, depending on when the return is filed. Filing late can also delay any refunds you may be eligible for, as belated returns are processed after timely ones.

Q3: Can I file ITR-1 if I have income from a business? No, ITR-1 is only applicable to individuals with income from salary, house property, and other sources like interest, dividends, or lottery winnings. If you have income from a business or profession, you need to file ITR-3 or ITR-4, depending on the type of business. ITR-3 is for individuals with business income, while ITR-4 is for presumptive taxation schemes under Section 44AD, 44ADA, or 44AE.

Q4: How can I e-verify my ITR-1? E-verification is an essential step to complete your ITR filing process. To e-verify your ITR-1, you can use one of the following methods:

Aadhaar-based OTP: If your Aadhaar is linked to your PAN and your mobile number is registered with Aadhaar, you can verify using an OTP sent to your mobile.
Net Banking: Log in to your net banking account, select the Income Tax e-filing option, and authenticate your return.
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): This option is available for corporates or professionals using DSC for authentication.

E-verification must be completed within 120 days from the date of filing to avoid your return being treated as invalid.

Q5: What documents do I need to file ITR-1? The documents required for filing ITR-1 include:

Form 16: Issued by your employer, showing details of your salary and TDS deductions.
Bank interest certificates: Detailing the interest earned on savings accounts or fixed deposits.
Proof of deductions under Section 80C: Such as PPF, EPF, insurance premiums, and tuition fees.
Other income documents: Like interest income from other sources, dividend income, or any other form of income. Ensure you have these documents ready to ensure a smooth filing process.

Q6: Can I file ITR-1 without a PAN card? No, a valid PAN card is a mandatory requirement for filing ITR-1. Your PAN is used for identification and to track your tax records, making it essential for filing your tax return. If you do not have a PAN card, you must apply for one before filing your ITR.

Q7: Is there any way to speed up the refund process? To speed up the refund process, consider the following tips:

File early: The sooner you file your return, the faster your refund can be processed.
Ensure accuracy: Accurate filing reduces the chances of delays due to errors, requiring further verification or revision.
E-verify promptly: E-verifying your return soon after filing helps prevent delays. The faster you complete the verification process, the sooner the Income Tax Department can process your return and issue the refund.

Q8: Can I make corrections to my ITR-1 after submission? Yes, you can file a revised return if you discover any mistakes or omissions in your original ITR-1. A revised return can be filed before the end of the assessment year (March 31, 2026, for FY 2024-25). The revised return should correct any errors, such as wrong income reporting or missed deductions. Ensure to mention that the return is being revised when submitting it.

Q9: Can I file ITR-1 on behalf of my spouse or children? ITR-1 can only be filed for the individual taxpayer who is earning the income. If you are the legal guardian of a minor child, you can file the return on their behalf, but you cannot file a return for your spouse unless you are authorized to do so under a legal capacity. Each individual must file their own return unless they are a dependent minor.

Q10: How do I track my refund status? To track your income tax refund status, follow these steps:

Visit the Income Tax Department’s official e-filing portal at incometax.gov.in.
Log in using your PAN and the assessment year for which you filed the return.
Go to the "My Account" section, and select "Refund/Demand Status" to check the status of your refund. You can also check it using the Income Tax Department's mobile app or the portal.

Q11: Can I file ITR-1 for income earned in a foreign country? No, ITR-1 cannot be used if you have income earned outside India. For foreign income, you must file ITR-2, which is specifically for individuals who have income from foreign sources, capital gains, or who have foreign assets. Ensure that you report all your global income accurately and comply with the Foreign Income Reporting requirements.

Q12: Can I file ITR-1 if I have a joint bank account? Yes, you can file ITR-1 even if you have a joint bank account, as long as the income from that account is solely yours. For joint accounts, you can report only the income portion that belongs to you. If the income is shared equally or as per the terms of the joint account, ensure you report your share accurately in the form. If you have doubts about how to handle joint income, it is advisable to consult with a tax professional.