As per the notification, the Director General of Income Tax (Systems), with the approval of the CBDT, has mandated the electronic filing of the following forms prescribed in Appendix-II of the Income Tax Rules, 1962.
In a significant move to streamline tax compliance processes, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has issued Notification 6/2024, specifying the mandatory electronic furnishing of certain forms under Rule 131 of the Income Tax Rules, 1962. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency, security, and convenience of filing critical tax-related forms.
Key Details of CBDT Notification 6/2024
As per the notification, the Director General of Income Tax (Systems), with the approval of the CBDT, has mandated the electronic filing of the following forms prescribed in Appendix-II of the Income Tax Rules, 1962. These forms must also be verified in accordance with the procedure outlined in sub-rule (1) of Rule 131:
Form-42: Appeal against refusal to recognize or withdrawal of recognition from a provident fund.
Form-43: Appeal against refusal to approve or withdrawal of approval from a superannuation fund.
Form-44: Appeal against refusal to approve or withdrawal of approval from a gratuity fund.
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Effective Date
This notification will take effect starting 22nd November 2024.
Overview of Rule 131: Electronic Furnishing of Forms
Rule 131 of the Income Tax Rules, 1962, empowers the Principal Director General of Income-tax (Systems) or the Director General of Income-tax (Systems) to specify forms and procedures for electronic filing with the approval of the CBDT. Key provisions include:
- Electronic Submission: Forms prescribed in Appendix-II must be filed electronically:
- With a digital signature if the return of income requires it.
- Using an electronic verification code (EVC) in cases where a digital signature is not mandatory.
- Board Approval: The Principal Director General or Director General, as applicable, must:
- Specify the forms, returns, statements, and reports to be filed electronically.
- Define the data structure, standards, and procedure for electronic furnishing and verification, including format modifications for compatibility.
- Formulate and implement robust policies for the security, archival, and retrieval of electronically furnished data.
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Benefits of the Notification
- Efficiency: Reduces paperwork and accelerates the processing of appeals.
- Security: Ensures data protection through electronic verification mechanisms.
- Accessibility: Simplifies the submission process for taxpayers by enabling online filing.
Conclusion
The introduction of mandatory electronic filing for these specified forms reflects the CBDT’s commitment to modernizing tax administration in India. Taxpayers must familiarize themselves with the updated procedures to ensure compliance from 22nd November 2024 onward.
For further updates on Income Tax Rules, notifications, and compliance requirements, stay tuned to our blog. Ensure your filing process is smooth and hassle-free by adopting electronic methods today.
To Access the CBDT Notification No. 6/2024 Click Here
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