In a remarkable instance of efficient governance, an individual recently shared an extraordinary experience of getting two Income Tax Returns (ITRs) processed and refunds credited within just three hours of filing. The incident highlights the Income Tax Department’s ongoing efforts to provide quick, seamless, and technology-driven taxpayer services.
Taxpayer’s Experience Goes Viral
Professor A. D. Vyas, who shared his appreciation on social media, described the incident as a “miracle” and an “extraordinary achievement” by the Income Tax Department, led by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. He revealed that he filed ITRs for his retired parents at 1 PM, and by 4 PM the same day, both returns were processed and the refunds were credited directly to their respective bank accounts.
Vyas also shared screenshots of the refund status and ITR processing intimation messages, which quickly caught public attention. After tagging senior officials and prominent personalities, the post garnered widespread appreciation for the department’s swift response, being hailed as a shining example of digital transformation and good governance in India’s public services.
In response, the Income Tax Department acknowledged the post, stating, “Glad to hear that. Thank you for the acknowledgment.”
Usual Timeline for ITR Processing and Refund
Generally, the Income Tax Department begins refund processing only after the taxpayer e-verifies their return. Typically, it may take 4 to 5 weeks for the refund to be credited to the taxpayer’s bank account.
If a refund is delayed beyond this period, taxpayers are advised to:
✔️ Check for email or SMS notifications from the Income Tax Department.
✔️ Review their ITR for discrepancies or pending verification.
✔️ Track the refund status through the Income Tax e-filing portal.
While some lucky taxpayers receive refunds within hours, others may experience delays due to various reasons, sometimes even extending to months or years.
How to Check ITR Refund Status Online
Follow these simple steps to check the status of your ITR refund:
Step 1: Visit the official Income Tax e-Filing Portal.
Step 2: Log in using your User ID (PAN), password, and captcha.
Step 3: Click on ‘View Filed Returns’ under the ‘e-File’ tab.
Step 4: Find the relevant Assessment Year and click on ‘View Details’.
Step 5: The refund status will be visible under the ‘Status’ section. You can also download the ITR-V or acknowledgment for further details.
Common Reasons for Refund Delay or Failure
Here are the most common reasons why your income tax refund may be delayed or failed:
- Bank Account Not Pre-Validated: Pre-validation of the bank account is now mandatory for refund processing.
- Name Mismatch: The name in your bank account must match the name on your PAN card.
- Incorrect IFSC Code: Ensure that the IFSC code provided is valid and correct.
- Closed Bank Account: If the bank account mentioned in your ITR is closed, the refund will fail.
- ITR Not Verified: An unverified ITR will not be processed, and hence, no refund will be issued.
If your refund status shows ‘Refund Failed’, update your bank details on the portal and raise a Refund Re-Issue Request.
Conclusion
This inspiring case highlights how India’s tax administration is evolving towards faster, transparent, and efficient processes. However, taxpayers must ensure their ITR is correctly filed, verified, and bank details are accurate to avoid refund delays.
Timely e-verification and pre-validation of bank accounts are crucial for smooth ITR processing and refund credit.