How to file your ITR on the e-filing portal in 10 easy steps

With just two days left until the income tax return (ITR) filing deadline, the clock is ticking for taxpayers who are yet to file. The good news is that the e-Filing portal has made the process much simpler, and if your documents are ready, you can complete your return in just a few easy steps.Nishant Shanker, Tax & Investments Expert at Navraj Global Advisors, said, "One should keep Form 16, PAN, Aadhaar, Form 26AS, AIS, TIS, bank statements, interest certificates, investment proofs, and details of any other income such as dividends, rent or capital gains. Having all documents ready before logging in significantly reduces filing time."Also, if you plan to claim deductions under the old tax regime, keep the relevant investment proofs handy as well.Further, ensure that your PAN is linked with Aadhaar, as you will not be able to proceed without it. HOW TO FILE YOUR ITR ONLINE IN 10 EASY STEPSLog in to the e-Filing portalVisit the Income Tax Department's e-Filing portal and log in using your PAN and password. Start a new returnClick on 'File Income Tax Return', select the Assessment Year 2026-27 and choose the online filing option.Select the correct ITR formChoose the return form that matches your income. Salaried taxpayers usually file ITR-1, but the correct form depends on your income sources. Select carefully.Verify your personal detailsCheck your name, address, bank account details and choose your preferred tax regime—old or new.Review the pre-filled informationThe portal automatically fills in much of your income using Form 16, AIS and Form 26AS. Don't assume everything is correct. Compare the figures with your own records and add any missing income.Claim eligible deductionsIf you are filing under the old tax regime, claim all deductions and exemptions that apply to you, such as Section 80C investments, health insurance, HRA or home loan benefits.Check your tax paymentsReview the TDS, advance tax and self-assessment tax details already reflected on the portal. Ensure the figures match your records.Preview your returnBefore submitting, carefully review every section. Even a small error can lead to delays or notices later.Pay any remaining taxIf there is any tax payable, clear the outstanding amount before filing your return to avoid additional interest.E-verify your returnMany taxpayers believe that submitting the return is the last step. It isn't. E-verification is compulsory, and without it, your return will be treated as not filed. Complete the e-verification process using Aadhaar OTP, net banking or any other available option.Your return is considered filed only after it has been successfully verified.Nishant Shanker explained, "E-verification is mandatory. Merely uploading the return does not complete the filing process. If the return is not e-verified within the prescribed time, it is treated as if it has not been filed, which can expose the taxpayer to the consequences of non-filing."In other words, the e-Filing portal has made ITR filing much easier by pre-filling several details. Even so, taxpayers should take a few extra minutes to verify every figure before clicking 'Submit'. Checking your income, deductions and tax payments carefully can help avoid mistakes, delays in refunds and unnecessary notices from the Income Tax Department.- EndsPublished By: Jasmine anandPublished On: Jul 30, 2026 12:11 IST