First-Time Filing Return? Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide to File Your ITR Online for FY 2024-25

If you are also filing your income tax return (ITR) for the first time. You might feel the process of filing is harder and more complex, but if you understand it, then it is not. As the Income Tax Department is slowly shifting completely online, the process of filing a return has become simpler. Now, the process of filing ITR is the simplest in comparison to past years. However, before filing ITR, taxpayers must be aware of the following key points.

As per the latest updates, the deadline to file the Income Tax Return (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25 is September 15, 2025. However, taxpayers are advised to begin filing their returns earlier to avoid the last-minute hustle and rush.

If you earn only from one source, then you may not require any help; you can file your ITR on your own. However, if you earn from various sources and wish to claim deductions and exemptions on them, then you may need help from a tax expert or a chartered accountant to file your return. As they have better knowledge in this context, they will not only guide you in what deductions and exemptions you can claim but also help you avoid mistakes in filing. This will decrease the chances of litigation, penalties, and tax notices.

Below are the detailed steps, following which one can submit his/her income tax return online:

Step 1: Visit the official portal of the Income Tax Department at incometax.gov.in. Register yourself there. You will require your PAN number to register (it should be linked to your Aadhaar Card).

Step 2: Now, click on the ‘Register’ button, located at the top-right corner of the portal’s home page. Fill in your PAN card number there and follow the instructions written there to complete the registration process.

Step 3: Choose the correct ITR form to file your return. The applicability of ITR forms depends on how much you earn. ITR-1 is generally filed by the salaried individuals, but if your source of income is business, capital gains, or other, you may need to file a different form. Hence, always be careful before choosing your ITR form.

Step 4: Choose the correct tax regime. If you are a salaried employee, you have probably already told your employer which tax regime you want to follow. But if you have not decided yet, it is smart to compare both the old and new tax regimes to see which one will save you more money.

Step 5: Gather all necessary documents. All taxpayers are advised to keep all crucial documents used for filing ITR before filing the return in order to avoid mistakes while filing it. These documents include Form 16, Form 26AS, AIS/TIS, interest certificates, investment proofs (like under Section 80C/80D), capital gains records, and home loan statements. Taxpayers will also need extra details such as their landlord’s name, policy numbers, insurer information, and receipt or account numbers for rent or investment claims to ensure smooth processing.