ITR Series:Day 5: Document Checklist for a Hassle-Free ITR Filing.

Overview

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) can feel like a breeze, but only if you’ve got your paperwork in order! Whether you’re a salaried professional, a freelancer, a landlord, or a business owner, having the right documents handy can save you from future hassles like errors, mismatches, missed deductions or tax notices.

Here’s your all-in-one checklist for a stress-free ITR filing experience for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26).

General Documents (For All Taxpayers)

• PAN Card
• Aadhaar Card
• Bank Account Details (especially account for refund)
• Form 26AS
• AIS (Annual Information Statement) & TIS
• Previous Year’s ITR (for reference)

For Salaried Individuals

• • Form 16 issued by employer
  • Salary Slips
  • Rent Receipts or Rental Agreement (for HRA claim)
  • LTA Bills (if claimed)
  • Investment Proofs for deductions under Section 80C, 80D, etc.
  • Home Loan Interest Certificate (for claiming deduction under Section 24(b))

For Self-Employed / Business Owners

• Profit & Loss Account and Balance Sheet
• Books of Accounts (if maintained)
• Bank Statements (business-related)
• Invoicing Records / Receipts
• GST Returns
• Audit Report (if applicable under Section 44AB)

For Rental Income

• • Rent Agreement
  • Municipal Tax Receipts
  • Property Tax Payment Receipts
  • Loan Certificate (for deduction on interest paid)

For Capital Gains

• Mutual Fund or Share Statements
• Property Sale Documents
• Capital Gains Statement from broker/platform
• Purchase and Sale Deeds, where applicable

For Income from Other Sources

• Interest Certificates (FD, RD, savings)
• Dividend Statements
• Lottery Winnings / Game Show Prizes (if applicable)
• Form 16A/16B/16C for TDS deducted on non-salary income

For Deductions & Exemptions

Quick Tips

• Match income details with Form 26AS and AIS
• Cross-verify TDS credits before submitting return
• Keep scanned/digital copies of documents for e-filing platforms

Summary Checklist

PAN & Aadhaar
Form 16 / Salary Details
Interest & Dividend Certificates
Capital Gains Records
Investment & Deduction Proofs
Property/Rental Income Proofs
Business Financials (if applicable)

Wrapping Up

Having the right documents ready can make your ITR filing process much smoother. Organize these now and avoid the last-minute rush. 

Coming Up Next: PAN and Aadhaar – What’s Mandatory and What’s Not

                                                                                                    Stay tuned for Day 6!