ITR Series: Day 16: What Happens After You File ITR? – Intimations, Refund Process & More

You’ve successfully filed your Income Tax Return , that’s a big step done . But what happens next? Many assume that filing is the final step, but the post-filing process is just as important. Let’s walk through the key stages that follow once you hit “Submit” on your ITR.

 

1. ITR Verification – Complete the Filing

Your return is not officially considered filed unless it’s verified. You can verify it through:

• Online methods: Aadhaar OTP, net banking, EVC, or using your Demat account.
• Offline method: Sending a signed physical ITR-V (acknowledgment) to CPC Bengaluru by post.

Timeline: Verification must be completed within 30 days of filing the return. Delayed verification may lead to your ITR being considered invalid.

 

2. Processing of Return & Intimation Under Section 143(1)

Once verified, the Income Tax Department processes your return. After processing, you’ll receive an intimation under Section 143(1) — typically via email and also available on the e-filing portal.

There are three possible outcomes:

• Return accepted as filed (no discrepancies).
• Refund determined (you’ll get money back).
• Demand notice if tax is payable due to mismatches.

It’s important to review this intimation to ensure everything has been processed correctly.

 

3. Refund Process – When Will You Get Your Money?

If you are eligible for a refund, it is usually credited directly to your pre-validated bank account (linked to your PAN). Make sure:

• Your bank account is validated on the e-filing portal.
• Your PAN is linked to your bank account.

Refunds are processed by the State Bank of India (SBI) and generally take anywhere from 7 to 45 days post-processing.

🔍 You can check refund status on:

• The Income Tax e-filing portal
• TIN NSDL refund status page

4. Possibility of Notices or Scrutiny

In some cases, your return might be flagged for additional scrutiny. You may receive notices under:

• Section 139(9) – Defective return.
• Section 143(2) – Scrutiny assessment.
• Section 245 – Adjustment of refund against previous dues.

Don’t panic. These notices are fairly routine and often just require clarification or submission of supporting documents. Timely and accurate responses are crucial to avoid further complications.

 

5. Filing a Revised Return or Rectification

• Made a mistake in your ITR? You can file a revised return under Section 139(5) before 31st December of the assessment year.
• Error in processing by CPC? File a rectification request under Section 154 to correct the issue.

Final Words

Filing your ITR is a big milestone, but post-filing steps ensure that your return is processed smoothly and your refund (if any) is credited without delays. Stay vigilant, monitor your email/SMS, and keep track of communication from the Income Tax Department.

👉 Pro tip: Always check the status of your return and refund periodically on the income tax portal. If something seems off, act quickly — don’t wait for the deadline.