The Income Tax Department has officially opened the portal for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for Assessment Year 2025-26. If this is your first time filing taxes, it’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed. From choosing the right tax regime to selecting the correct ITR form and collecting necessary documents — everything must be done with precision. Here’s a comprehensive guide for first-time taxpayers to ensure a smooth and error-free filing experience.

✅ 1. Gather All Required Documents Before You Begin

Before filing your ITR, you must collect all documents that show your sources of income. This includes:

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  PAN and Aadhaar card (PAN-Aadhaar linking is mandatory)

  
  


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  Salary slips and Form 16

  
  


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  Form 16A (for TDS on other income)

  
  


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  Bank account interest certificates

  
  


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  Capital gains statements (if applicable)

  
  


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  Rent receipts (if claiming HRA)

  
  


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  Investment proofs for deductions under sections like 80C, 80D, etc.

  
  

A complete set of documents ensures accurate tax calculation and prevents discrepancies.

✅ 2. Choose the Right Tax Regime – Old vs New

As a taxpayer, you now have the option to choose between the old tax regime and the new tax regime.

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  Old Regime: Allows multiple deductions like HRA, LTA, 80C (investments), 80D (medical), and more.

  
  


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  New Regime: Offers lower tax slabs but does not permit most deductions.

  
  

Analyze your salary structure and investments carefully before making your choice. Once selected, it reflects in your ITR filing.

✅ 3. Select the Correct ITR Form

Choosing the correct ITR form is vital. Using the wrong one can lead to rejection. There are seven types:

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  ITR-1 (Sahaj): For salaried individuals earning up to ₹50 lakh

  
  


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  ITR-2: For individuals with capital gains or multiple properties

  
  


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  ITR-3: For professionals or business income

  
  


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  ITR-4 (Sugam): For presumptive income under sections 44AD, 44ADA, 44AE

  
  


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  ITR-5, 6, 7: For firms, companies, and trusts

  
  

Read the eligibility carefully before choosing the form.

✅ 4. Double-Check All Details and Avoid Errors

Common mistakes include incorrect bank account numbers, mismatched TDS amounts, or wrong personal details. Verify everything twice before submitting the return.

✅ 5. Don’t Miss the Deadline – July 31, 2025

The due date to file ITR for AY 2025-26 is 31st July 2025. Missing the deadline can result in penalties and interest charges. File early to avoid last-minute technical glitches.

✅ 6. Complete E-Verification Within 30 Days

Once you submit your ITR, you must e-verify it within 30 days. This step is mandatory to validate your return. You can do it via Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or EVC methods.

📝 Final Thoughts

Filing ITR for the first time doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, document collection, and understanding of tax systems, it becomes a simple task. Stay informed, file early, and ensure you comply with all legal requirements. If needed, consult a tax expert for professional help.