Filing income tax returns can be a daunting task for many people. But did you know that getting your ITR (Income Tax Return) file is actually quite straightforward these days?
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire process of retrieving your ITR file in just a few simple steps. Whether you need it to apply for a loan or visa, or just want to have it handy for your records, getting your past ITRs is easier than ever in 2024.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is an ITR File and Why Do You Need It?
- Step-by-Step Process to Get Your ITR File
- Step 1: Register on the Income Tax e-Filing Portal
- Step 2: Log in and Go to ‘My Account’
- Step 3: Click on ‘View Filed Returns’
- Step 4: Select Assessment Year and View ITR File
- Download ITR File in PDF Format
- Additional Ways to Get ITR File
- Conclusion
- FAQs on Getting ITR File
What is an ITR File and Why Do You Need It?
An ITR file is the copy of your Income Tax Return that you have submitted to the Income Tax Department for an assessment year. It contains details of your income, tax deductions, tax paid, refund claimed, etc. for that year.
You may need your ITR file for various reasons like:
- To apply for a business/personal loan – Most banks and NBFCs require your past ITRs.
- For visa application – Many countries need you to furnish ITRs for last 3-5 years.
- As proof of income/identity – ITR is an important document for income proof.
- For future reference – Keeping ITR copies handy helps in quick paperwork.
- In case of Income Tax scrutiny – ITR documents will be required during assessment.
So it’s always advisable to keep your ITR files safely. Thankfully, getting them is now very easy.
Step-by-Step Process to Get Your ITR File
Here is the simple step-by-step process to get your past ITR files instantly:
Step 1: Register on the Income Tax e-Filing Portal
- Go to the official Income Tax e-filing portal: https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/
- Click on ‘Register Yourself’ under the ‘Access to Income Tax Services’ section.
- Enter your valid PAN, full name, date of birth/incorporation, and captcha code.
- Create a password and register your profile. An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number for verification.
Step 2: Log in and Go to ‘My Account’
- After registering, login to your account using your PAN and password.
- Click on ‘My Account’ from the menu.
Step 3: Click on ‘View Filed Returns’
- Under the ‘Profiling’ section, click on ‘View Filed Returns’.
- This will display a list of all Income Tax Returns filed by you for various assessment years.
Step 4: Select Assessment Year and View ITR File
- From the list, click on the ‘View’ link for the ITR of the year you need.
- The complete ITR form filed by you for that assessment year will open in PDF format which you can save and download.
That’s it! By following these four simple steps, you can get your past ITR files with just a few clicks within minutes. The entire process is paperless and available 24×7 through the e-filing portal.
Download ITR File in PDF Format
The ITR file is available in downloadable PDF format on the e-filing portal. To save it on your system:
- In the PDF file, click on the ‘Download’ icon in the top-right corner.
- In the pop-up window, select ‘PDF’ as format and click on ‘Download’.
- The ITR PDF file will get downloaded to your device.
You can now save this ITR file on your system or take a print out for future requirements. The download is completely free of charge.
Additional Ways to Get ITR File
Apart from the Income Tax e-filing portal, you can also get your past ITRs through:
- From your CA: If you had filed your returns through a CA, they would have a copy of your ITRs which you can ask for.
- From your employer: For returns filed during employment, employers also receive a copy of your ITR which they can provide if you request.
- From Income Tax CPC: You can also get copies of processed returns by filing an RTI with the CPC or Jurisdictional Assessing Officer.
- From Income Tax Portal: Registered users can also raise a grievance on the portal to get their ITR copy if unable to download.
- From Aaykar Sampark Kendra: By visiting your nearest Aaykar Sampark Kendra with your PAN card.
So if you face any issue in getting your ITR from the e-filing portal directly, you can opt for any of the above mentioned alternatives.
Conclusion
We hope this detailed guide was helpful in understanding the process of retrieving your ITR files. Whether you need last year’s or five years old ITR, obtaining it is now a very quick and hassle-free process through the government’s e-filing portal.
Maintaining copies of your Income Tax Returns is advisable as they may be required anytime for multiple purposes. So do download your old ITRs in PDF format and keep them securely saved for future use.
Till date, over $xx billion in refunds have been transferred by the Income Tax Department directly into taxpayer bank accounts through the e-filing portal. So regular ITR filing and keeping your returns safe can also help you claim your eligible refund amount every year without any delays!
FAQs on Getting ITR File
Q1. How many years does Income Tax Department keep ITR data?
As per law, the Income Tax Department maintains ITR records for 6 years. However, on the e-filing portal, you can generally get access to ITRs filed in the last 10-12 years.
Q2. I have not registered on e-filing portal. Can I still get my ITR copy?
Yes, you can get your ITR file without registration by filing an RTI. But registering on the portal makes getting past ITRs extremely convenient through a single window.
Q3. What details do I need to register on e-filing portal?
You need your PAN number, full name as per PAN, date of birth/incorporation, mobile number and email ID to register on the Income Tax e-filing portal.
Q4. I can’t download my ITR file. What should I do?
First, check if you are able to view the ITR. If yes, try downloading using a different browser or device. If issue persists, raise a grievance on the e-filing portal.
Q5. What is the cost for downloading ITR file from the portal?
There is NO charge or fee for downloading your ITR files from the government’s e-filing website. You can get your past ITRs for free.
