How to Revise ITR to Claim a Missed Refund
- PRITI SIRDESHMUKH
- Oct 15
- 8 min read
Filing an Income Tax Return (ITR) correctly ensures all deductions and exemptions are claimed, and any eligible refund is received. Often, taxpayers discover after filing that some deductions were missed or errors were made, leading to a missed refund. Under Section 139(5) of the Income Tax Act, taxpayers can file a revised return to correct mistakes and claim any additional refund due. The process is straightforward, does not attract penalties, and can be done multiple times within the deadline set for the assessment year. Platforms like TaxBuddy simplify this process, making revisions efficient and error-free.
Table of Contents
What is a Revised ITR and When Can It Be Filed?
A Revised Income Tax Return (Revised ITR) is a corrected version of a previously filed ITR submitted under Section 139(5) of the Income Tax Act. Taxpayers file a revised return when they discover errors or omissions in their original filing, such as incorrect income reporting, missed deductions, or overlooked TDS credits. It allows taxpayers to correct mistakes without facing legal complications. A revised ITR can only be filed before the end of the relevantassessment year or before the completion of the assessment, whichever comes first. Filing a revised return ensures accurate tax computation, minimizes interest or penalties, and can help claim refunds that may have been missed in the original return.
How to Revise ITR to Claim a Missed Refund
If a taxpayer realizes they have missed claiming a refund in the original ITR, filing a revised return is the proper method to claim it. The revised ITR should include the corrected income, deductions, and TDS information. Taxpayers must carefully review their Form 16, bank statements, and other financial documents to ensure all refundable amounts are correctly accounted for. The revised filing should clearly reflect the additional refund being claimed to avoid any delays or discrepancies during processing.
Steps to File a Revised Income Tax Return Online
Login to the Income Tax Portal: Access the e-filing portal using your PAN and password.
Select ‘e-File’ > ‘Income Tax Return’: Choose the assessment year for which the original ITR was filed.
Select ‘Revised Return’: Indicate that this filing is a revision of the earlier return under Section 139(5).
Choose the ITR Form: Use the same ITR form as the original return.
Upload Corrected Details: Enter corrected income, deductions, and TDS details. If using JSON or utility formats, upload the updated file.
Submit and Verify: Submit the revised ITR and complete the verification process through Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or physical verification via ITR-V.
Important Considerations While Claiming Additional Refunds
Claiming an additional or missed refund through a revised Income Tax Return (ITR) requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth process and avoid unnecessary delays or complications. The first step is to make sure that all income, deductions, and exemptions are accurately reported in the revised return. Any discrepancies between the original and revised filing can trigger scrutiny or delay refund processing. Taxpayers should double-check that every component of their income, including salary, interest, capital gains, and other sources, is correctly included, and that all eligible deductions under Sections like 80C, 80D, or 80E are claimed appropriately without errors.
Next, it is essential to verify that all Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) credits are accurately reflected in the Form 26AS before submitting the revised return. This ensures that the additional refund claimed is correctly reconciled with the TDS already recorded by the Income Tax Department. Filing a revised return without checking these credits can result in mismatches, causing the refund process to be delayed while the authorities investigate the discrepancies.
Avoiding over-reporting or double-claiming deductions is another critical consideration. Claiming deductions that have already been accounted for in the original return, or overstating amounts, can raise red flags and lead to processing delays, notice issuance, or even penalties. Taxpayers should carefully reconcile all deductions and investments to prevent unintentional errors.
Lastly, it is advisable to keep all supporting documents, such as receipts, bank statements, TDS certificates, and investment proofs, readily available. The Income Tax Department may request clarification or verification for the revised claims, and having these documents organized and accessible ensures that any queries can be addressed promptly. Proper documentation not only supports the refund claim but also helps maintain compliance and reduces the likelihood of additional notices or audits.
By carefully following these considerations, taxpayers can claim additional refunds efficiently and minimize potential delays or complications in the refund process.
Verification Process for Revised ITR
Verification is a crucial step in validating a revised ITR. Without verification, the revised return is considered invalid. Taxpayers can verify using:
Aadhaar OTP
Net banking or bank account based e-verification
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Physical ITR-V submission via post
Timely verification ensures faster processing of refunds and prevents notices or delays.
Deadline for Filing Revised ITR Under Section 139(5)
A revised ITR must be filed before the end of the relevant assessment year, which is typically one year from the end of the financial year, or before the completion of the assessment, whichever comes first. For FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26), taxpayers should ensure that the revised return is filed on or before March 31, 2026, to remain compliant and claim any additional refunds.
Multiple Revisions: Rules and Limitations
Taxpayers are allowed to file multiple revisions under Section 139(5) if errors are discovered sequentially. However, each revised return must be filed before the assessment year ends. Only the latest revised ITR is considered for processing, so it is essential to ensure that all corrections and claims are included in the final revised submission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Revising ITR
Common mistakes when revising an Income Tax Return (ITR) can cause delays, errors, or even penalties. Understanding and avoiding these pitfalls is crucial for a smooth filing experience. One frequent error is filing the wrong ITR form that differs from the original return. For example, if the original return was filed using ITR-1, filing a revised return using ITR-2 or another form can create inconsistencies in the system and may lead to processing errors or notices from the Income Tax Department.
Another common mistake is failing to update TDS and income details accurately. Taxpayers may overlook changes in salary, interest income, or deductions, or fail to reflect updated TDS credits in the revised return. Such omissions can result in discrepancies between the filed return and the department’s records, which can delay refund processing or trigger notices.
Not verifying the revised return after submission is also a significant error. Verification is mandatory, either through e-verification methods like Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by sending a signed physical ITR-V to the Centralised Processing Centre. Without verification, the revised return is considered invalid, and the corrections will not be processed.
Another mistake to avoid is claiming deductions or refunds that were already accounted for in the original return. Duplicate claims can lead to scrutiny or adjustment of refunds, resulting in delays or reductions in refund amounts.
Finally, delaying the filing of the revised return close to the assessment year deadline can cause processing delays. Submitting the return at the last minute may overload the system or create a backlog, delaying the approval of refunds and increasing the likelihood of errors. Early filing ensures ample time to verify details and reduces the risk of complications.
TaxBuddy Assistance for Filing and Revising ITR
TaxBuddy simplifies both original and revised ITR filing with AI-driven tools and expert-assisted plans. It ensures:
Accurate computation of income, deductions, and TDS credits.
Seamless generation of JSON files or utility-based ITR submission.
Step-by-step guidance for filing revised returns, including claiming missed refunds.
Easy verification through e-verification options, reducing the chances of errors or delays.
Using TaxBuddy ensures that both filing and revision processes are smooth, efficient, and compliant with the latest tax regulations.
Conclusion
Filing a revised ITR is essential for correcting errors, claiming missed refunds, and ensuring compliance with tax laws. By carefully reviewing income, deductions, and TDS credits, taxpayers can file accurate revisions under Section 139(5) and avoid penalties or delays. Platforms like TaxBuddy provide comprehensive support, guiding taxpayers through both original and revised filings efficiently. For anyone looking for assistance in tax filing, it is highly recommended to download the TaxBuddy mobile app for a simplified, secure, and hassle-free experience.
FAQs
Q1: What is a revised ITR?
A revised Income Tax Return (ITR) is a return filed to correct errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in an original ITR that has already been submitted. Errors can include incorrect income reporting, missed deductions, or misreported TDS credits. Filing a revised return ensures compliance, corrects mistakes, and prevents potential penalties or interest charges.
Q2: When can I file a revised ITR?
A revised ITR can be filed anytime after submitting the original return but before the end of the relevant assessment year. For FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26), this means taxpayers can file a revised return up until March 31, 2026, or before the completion of the assessment, whichever comes first.
Q3: Can I claim a missed refund through a revised return?
Yes. If your original ITR missed any refund due to underreported deductions or errors, filing a revised ITR allows you to correct the figures and claim the pending refund. The Income Tax Department recalculates the refund based on the corrected information.
Q4: How do I file a revised ITR online?
To file a revised ITR online, log in to the Income Tax Department e-filing portal. Select “Prepare and Submit ITR Online” or use the relevant ITR utility (Excel/Java/Offline). Choose the option to file a revised return and enter the Acknowledgement Number (ARN) of the original ITR. Complete the form, validate, and submit. E-Verify to complete the process.
Q5: Is verification mandatory for a revised return?
Yes. E-verification or submission of ITR-V to the Centralised Processing Centre (CPC) is mandatory for the revised return to be valid. Without verification, the revised ITR is considered invalid and will not be processed.
Q6: What is the deadline for filing a revised ITR?
The deadline for filing a revised ITR is before the end of the assessment year, which is March 31, 2026, for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26). Filing after this period is not allowed, and taxpayers must ensure timely submission to correct any errors.
Q7: Can I file multiple revised returns?
Yes, taxpayers can file multiple revised returns within the assessment year. Each revised return should reference the ARN of the original return. The latest revised return submitted is considered valid, and it overrides any previous submissions.
Q8: Are there penalties for errors in a revised ITR?
If errors are unintentional and corrected through the revised ITR before detection by the tax authorities, penalties are generally not imposed. However, deliberate misreporting or filing incorrect information can attract penalties under the Income Tax Act.
Q9: Can I revise ITR for TDS mismatch issues?
Yes. If TDS credits are not correctly reflected in your original ITR, filing a revised return allows you to update the return with the correct TDS details. This helps in claiming the accurate refund and prevents mismatch notices from the department.
Q10: What documents are needed to file a revised return?
To file a revised ITR, you need:
Original ITR acknowledgement (ARN)
Updated Form 16/Form 16A or TDS certificates
Bank statements or interest certificates
Proof of deductions (Section 80C, 80D, 80E, etc.)
Details of income from all sources, including capital gains and other investments
Q11: How long does it take for the revised ITR refund to process?
The processing time for a revised ITR refund is generally similar to an original return, but it may take 4–12 weeks depending on the volume of submissions and the complexity of corrections. E-verifying the return and providing accurate details can expedite processing.
Q12: How does TaxBuddy assist in filing and revising ITR?
TaxBuddy simplifies both original and revised ITR filing with AI-driven tools and expert assistance. The platform guides taxpayers through error-free filing, ensures TDS credits and deductions are correctly entered, and helps prepare revised returns efficiently. TaxBuddy also allows e-verification and tracks refund status, making the process faster, more accurate, and user-friendly.
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