Step-by-Step: Using TaxBuddy’s DIY Filing Tool for AY 2025–26
- Farheen Mukadam
- Sep 3
- 10 min read
Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) has become easier than ever with the advancements in online filing tools. The process is now streamlined, thanks to platforms like TaxBuddy, which offer a step-by-step guide for taxpayers to file their returns efficiently. One of the most user-friendly features is the DIY (Do-It-Yourself) filing tool, which allows taxpayers to handle their tax filings independently while ensuring accuracy and compliance. This guide walks you through the steps for filing ITR using the DIY tool, providing an easy, stress-free experience. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth filing process from start to finish, all while saving time and effort.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Register or Log In
Before you begin filing your ITR, the first step is to either register or log in to your account on the TaxBuddy platform. If you are a new user, you will need to provide your basic information, such as your name, contact details, and PAN number, to create an account. For returning users, simply log in with your credentials to access your dashboard.
Registration helps ensure your account is secure and personalized, allowing you to track your filing status, manage returns, and access additional support if needed. Once you're logged in, you can proceed with the filing process.
Step 2: Choose the DIY Filing Option
After logging in, you will be presented with several options for filing your ITR. To file independently, choose the DIY filing option. This tool is designed for individuals who are confident in their ability to handle the tax filing process without professional assistance. TaxBuddy’s DIY tool simplifies the process by providing a structured workflow, guiding you through each necessary step.
By selecting this option, you gain access to the intuitive filing tool that will prompt you with relevant questions and sections based on your income details, ensuring you don't miss any critical information.
Step 3: Select Financial Year and ITR Form
Once you’ve chosen the DIY filing option, the next step is to select the financial year (FY) for which you’re filing the return. For instance, if you’re filing for FY 2024-25, make sure to choose the corresponding assessment year (AY 2025-26).
Next, you’ll need to select the appropriate ITR form. TaxBuddy will suggest the right form based on your income sources and filing category, such as ITR-1 for salaried individuals or ITR-3 for professionals and business owners. This step is crucial, as selecting the wrong form can lead to discrepancies and delays in processing your return.
Step 4: Import or Upload Income Details
After selecting the correct ITR form, you will be asked to input your income details. You can either import your data directly from Form 16, if you have it, or manually upload details regarding your income sources. TaxBuddy’s platform allows easy integration with Form 16, making the process even more straightforward for salaried employees.
For other income sources, such as freelance work or business income, you’ll need to provide the relevant details manually. The DIY tool will guide you through each section, making sure you include all necessary information to avoid errors.
Step 5: Compare and Choose Tax Regime
After entering your income details and deductions, you will be prompted to compare the old tax regime with the new tax regime. This is a critical step, as the two regimes offer different benefits.
The old tax regime allows you to claim various deductions and exemptions, whereas the new regime offers lower tax rates but without the benefit of most deductions. TaxBuddy will provide a clear comparison to help you choose the most beneficial option for your financial situation. Once you’ve compared both, select the tax regime that gives you the maximum tax savings.
Step 6: Review, Verify, and Submit
Once all your information has been entered, TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool will provide you with a comprehensive review of your tax return. This step ensures that you haven’t missed any important details and that everything is accurate.
You’ll be asked to verify the details entered, such as your income, deductions, and exemptions. After reviewing, if everything is in order, you can submit your return. This final submission is a critical step, as it confirms that you’re ready for e-verification.
Step 7: E-Verification
After submitting your return, the next step is e-verification. This process allows you to verify your ITR electronically, ensuring that your return is officially processed by the Income Tax Department.
TaxBuddy provides multiple options for e-verification, including through Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by sending a signed physical copy of the ITR-V to the CPC (Centralized Processing Centre). E-verification is mandatory for your return to be accepted, so make sure to complete this step promptly.
Step 8: Track Your Filing Status
Once your ITR has been successfully e-verified, you can track the status of your return directly on the TaxBuddy platform. The platform will notify you of any updates, such as the processing status of your return or when your refund is issued. You can also monitor any additional steps required, like responding to notices or submitting further documents.
Post-Filing Support
TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool doesn’t leave you in the dark after submission. If you receive a notice from the tax authorities or need to make changes to your filing, TaxBuddy offers post-filing support to guide you through the process. Whether it’s responding to an income tax notice, filing a revised return, or tracking your refund, TaxBuddy ensures you receive the assistance you need.
Why Use TaxBuddy’s DIY Filing Tool?
TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool offers an innovative solution for individuals who prefer to handle their Income Tax Return (ITR) filing independently but with expert guidance. This user-friendly platform simplifies the entire process of tax filing, which can often feel overwhelming due to the complexity of tax forms, rules, and regulations. TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool stands out for its intuitive, step-by-step approach that walks you through the filing process seamlessly. Here’s a deeper look at why you should consider using TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool:
1. File Your Return Independently with Expert Guidance at Every Step TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool is designed for taxpayers who prefer to take control of their own filing but still want to ensure accuracy and compliance. As you progress through the filing process, the tool provides expert guidance, offering tips and recommendations at every stage. Whether you’re unsure about entering income details or choosing the correct deductions, the tool explains everything clearly and concisely, helping you avoid mistakes and file confidently.
This guidance ensures that even if you are filing your taxes for the first time, you won't feel lost in the complex filing process. The tool gives you the flexibility of filing your return independently while benefiting from expert assistance whenever you need it.
2. Choose the Right ITR Form and Tax Regime for Your Situation One of the most important decisions when filing your ITR is selecting the correct form and tax regime. TaxBuddy’s DIY tool helps you make the right choice based on your individual tax situation. The platform analyses your financial details and automatically suggests the most appropriate ITR form, whether it’s for salaried employees, freelancers, or businesses. It takes the guesswork out of the process, ensuring you don’t accidentally file the wrong form, which could lead to penalties or a delayed refund.
Additionally, the tool helps you select between the old tax regime and the new tax regime. Depending on your income, exemptions, and deductions, TaxBuddy will guide you to the option that maximises your tax benefits.
3. Enter Income, Deductions, and Exemptions Accurately Accurate data entry is crucial when filing your ITR to avoid penalties or notices from the Income Tax Department. TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool ensures that you enter your income, deductions, and exemptions correctly by providing easy-to-follow instructions. You’ll be prompted to enter details like salary, business income, interest earned, and capital gains, ensuring you don't miss any essential components.
The tool also helps you claim applicable tax deductions under various sections, such as 80C, 80D, and 80G, by guiding you through the process of entering the correct amounts. Furthermore, it ensures you account for exemptions like HRA (House Rent Allowance) or capital gains exemptions, reducing your taxable income and optimizing your tax return.
4. E-Verify Your Return for a Faster Filing Process TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool allows you to e-verify your return, which is a crucial step in ensuring a faster and smoother filing process. E-verification enables you to validate your return electronically without the need for physical documents, reducing the processing time significantly. Once you’ve filled out your return, you can verify it via methods like Aadhaar OTP, Net Banking, or your Demat account, all directly through the TaxBuddy platform.
E-verification not only accelerates the filing process but also helps you avoid any delays in the acceptance of your return. It’s an essential feature for taxpayers who want their ITR processed as quickly as possible, especially when they’re expecting a refund.
Conclusion
Filing your ITR doesn’t have to be overwhelming. TaxBuddy’s DIY filing tool makes it easy to file your taxes independently while ensuring that you meet all compliance requirements. From selecting the correct tax regime to tracking your refund status, TaxBuddy offers a comprehensive solution that simplifies the entire process. Whether you’re a salaried individual, freelancer, or business owner, this tool helps you file your ITR accurately and on time, all while saving you time and stress.
For a hassle-free filing experience, it is highly recommended to download the TaxBuddy mobile app for a simplified, secure, and stress-free tax filing journey.
FAQs
Q1: How do I know which ITR form to choose?
Choosing the correct ITR form is crucial to ensure that your tax filing is accurate and compliant. TaxBuddy simplifies this process by guiding you through the selection of the appropriate form based on your income sources, whether it be salary, business, or freelance income. If you're unsure, TaxBuddy’s expert support is available to provide personalized assistance, ensuring that you select the correct ITR form and that your filing is completed smoothly.
Q2: What happens if I make a mistake while filing my ITR?
If you make a mistake during your ITR filing, don’t worry. Taxpayers are allowed to file a revised return to correct any errors. If you have filed through TaxBuddy, the platform will guide you through the process of making corrections and submitting the revised return. This ensures that your filing complies with tax laws and helps you avoid penalties for inaccurate filings.
Q3: How do I track my refund status?
TaxBuddy offers a streamlined process for tracking your refund status. Once your ITR is filed, the platform will provide updates on the progress of your refund. You’ll be notified once your return is processed, and you can also track the status through the TaxBuddy dashboard. This ensures you’re always aware of where your refund is in the processing timeline.
Q4: Can I file my ITR using TaxBuddy’s DIY tool if I have multiple income sources?
Yes, TaxBuddy’s DIY (Do It Yourself) tool is designed to accommodate a variety of income sources. Whether you have salary income, freelance earnings, rental income, or business profits, TaxBuddy’s platform provides clear instructions and guidance for each category. The tool is equipped to handle multiple income streams, ensuring an accurate and efficient filing process.
Q5: Is it possible to file ITR through TaxBuddy after the deadline?
Yes, if you miss the original or extended deadline, you can still file your ITR using TaxBuddy through the belated return option. The belated return filing deadline for FY 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025-26) is December 31, 2025. While penalties will apply for late filings, TaxBuddy makes it easy to complete your return even after the deadline, ensuring that you're still compliant with tax regulations.
Q6: How can I ensure my ITR filing is accurate?
TaxBuddy’s DIY tool offers an extensive review process to ensure the accuracy of your ITR filing. The platform checks for common mistakes, ensuring that your income, deductions, and tax credits are correctly reported. If you’re uncertain about any aspect of your filing, TaxBuddy’s expert support team is available to help ensure that all information is correctly filled out before submission, minimizing the chances of errors.
Q7: Can I switch tax regimes after filing my ITR?
Yes, you can switch tax regimes even after filing your ITR. If you realize that you should have opted for a different tax regime (e.g., switching from the old tax regime to the new tax regime), you can file a revised return. This allows you to make necessary adjustments and ensure that your tax filing is in line with your financial situation.
Q8: How long does it take to process my ITR after submission?
The processing time for an ITR depends on several factors, including the complexity of your return and the time of submission. Typically, it takes 2-3 weeks for the Income Tax Department to process a return, but this may vary. TaxBuddy provides updates on your filing status, so you’ll be informed about when your return is processed and when you can expect your refund.
Q9: What is e-verification, and why is it necessary?
E-verification is a mandatory step in the ITR filing process, confirming that the return has been filed by the taxpayer. It’s essential for the validation of your return and to ensure its acceptance by the Income Tax Department. TaxBuddy offers multiple e-verification methods, such as OTP via Aadhaar, net banking, and more, making the process seamless and ensuring that your return is filed electronically and securely.
Q10: Can I use TaxBuddy if I need expert assistance?
Yes, TaxBuddy provides both self-filing and expert-assisted plans, allowing you to choose the level of support that fits your needs. If you require professional assistance, TaxBuddy’s team of tax experts will guide you through the entire process, ensuring your return is accurately filed and compliant with tax laws. You can also get advice on tax planning, deductions, and credits, making your filing process easier and more efficient.
Q11: Can I file ITR for previous years using TaxBuddy?
Yes, TaxBuddy allows you to file ITR for previous years, including belated and revised returns. If you missed filing in prior years or need to make corrections, TaxBuddy provides the tools to file for those years, ensuring you remain compliant and can access any potential refunds.
Q12: How secure is my data when filing with TaxBuddy?
TaxBuddy ensures that your data is highly secure throughout the filing process. The platform uses robust encryption and complies with the highest standards of data security to protect your sensitive financial information. With TaxBuddy, you can file your ITR with confidence, knowing that your data is handled with the utmost care and security.
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