9.19 Crore Income Tax Returns Filed in FY 2024-25:

9.19 Crore Income Tax Returns Filed in FY 2024-25 The number of income tax returns (ITR) filed for the FY 2024-25 by March 31, 2025, stood at 9.19 crore, which is the highest record ever. ln 2023-24, 8.52 crore returns were filed in and 7.78 crore in 2022-23. Out of the total returns, 8.64 crore were verified online using Aadhaar OTP, bank account details, or other digital methods. After these returns were verified, the Income Tax Department refunded Rs. 24.35 lakh crore to taxpayers. One of the main reasons behind the rise in the number of ITR filings is technology. The portal of Income Tax now gives pre-filled forms, AI-powered suggestions, and error checks in real time. It assists new users in filing returns without the aid of a tax professional. Yet another reason is that several individuals are availing home loans, business loans, or personal loans, and banks request ITR documents to substantiate their income. Even those who don't have to file taxes are now doing it voluntarily. The number of ITRs filed in Maharashtra was 1.39 crore, which is the highest among all states. In Uttar Pradesh, the number of ITRs filed was 91.38 lakh, followed by Gujarat with 88.58 lakh. This reflects that more states are participating in ITR filing and are complying with the tax rules.

• Experts suggest filing an ITR even if your income is below the exemption limit as it offers several benefits, such as:
• It could help in getting speedy loan approvals,
• It serves as proof of income for renting properties or educational purposes.
• It allows individuals to get access to visa application easily
• Individuals can claim TDS refunds if excess TDS has been deducted by the employer or bank.
• Additionally, the government is also encouraging people to file ITR voluntarily by providing rewards like lesser inspection for early filers, faster refunds, etc..