In recent years, rapid digitization has transformed government operations. On June 7, 2021, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) introduced the new income tax e-filing portal, replacing the previous one. Taxpayers must now use 'incometax.gov.in' for all tax-related tasks, redesigned for convenience and modernity.
New Features Of The Updated Income Tax e-Filing Portal:
Swift ITR Processing: The user-friendly interface ensures prompt processing of filed tax returns, leading to quicker refunds for taxpayers.
Free ITR Preparation Software: Taxpayers gain access to complimentary ITR preparation software, currently offering ITR-1 and ITR-4 online and offline, with ITR-2 online. Other software for ITR-3, ITR-5, ITR-6, and ITR-7 coming soon, simplifying the e-filing process through interactive questions.
Enhanced Call Centre Support: Integration with a new call centre provides immediate assistance, complemented by detailed FAQs, tutorials, videos, and chatbot/live agents to address taxpayer queries effectively.
Unified Dashboard Interface: Taxpayers can conveniently track all interactions, uploads, and pending actions in a single dashboard, streamlining follow-up procedures.
Diverse Payment Methods: Multiple payment options, including RTGS/NEFT, credit cards, UPI, and net banking from any bank account, facilitate easy tax payments. The facility will be activated after June 18, 2021, ensuring smooth payment of the first instalment of advance tax.
Mobile Application Accessibility: A mobile application with all portal functionalities will be introduced subsequently, enabling taxpayers to manage their taxes via mobile networks anytime, anywhere.
Pre-filled ITRs: The portal offers pre-filling of certain income details, such as salary, house property, and business/profession income, alongside comprehensive pre-filling of salary, interest, dividend, and capital gains details. This feature operates upon the upload of TDS and SFT statements by relevant entities.
Advantages Of The Income Tax Portal In India:
The integration with the ITR processing system ensures prompt refunds, enhancing user satisfaction and efficiency.
It offers complimentary ITR preparation software for ITR 1 and 4 (both online and offline) and ITR 2 forms (offline).
Taxpayers can utilize the portal for filing income tax forms, navigating scrutiny processes, and accessing various tax professionals.
Users can conveniently upload professional details for easy access during Income Tax Returns (ITRs) filing.
The dashboard feature aids in managing interactions and tracking pending requests effectively.
The newly established call centre addresses inquiries related to online income tax filing, simplifying tax payment processes.
These highlights make ITR filing simpler through the new Income Tax Portal. Assistance from tax experts is available for further simplification if needed.
How To Navigate The New Income Tax Portal:
Begin by visiting the official website at incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/.
Upon reaching the homepage, locate the respective tabs for checking refunds, deductions, applicable forms, and filing ITR. These tabs are situated at the top of the page.
Scroll down to access services such as ITR status, refund status, Aadhaar linking, and e-verification.
Towards the bottom of the page, you'll find instructional videos providing insights into the website. User manuals and FAQs are also available.
To utilize the portal's services, complete the registration process. Upon logging in, you'll gain access to the following services:
Refund/reissue and rectification services.
Explore the e-return intermediary.
Fill out relevant forms and submit tax returns.
Complete pending proceedings and lodge complaints as needed.
