While filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is the first step, getting your refund is just as important — especially if you’ve paid more tax than required.
Key Points for Tax Refund 2025
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline to file ITR | 15 September 2025 |
| Reason for delay | Stricter scrutiny, document checks |
| Forms that take longer | ITR-2, ITR-3 |
| Faster processing | ITR-1, ITR-4 |
| Interest on refund? | Yes, if refund >10% of tax paid |
| What can delay refund | Errors in ITR, unverified returns, document requests |
According to recent updates, the Income Tax Department has extended the ITR filing deadline for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) to September 15, 2025. While that gives more time to file, it also means:
- More returns will be filed close to the deadline
- Each return may take longer to review
- Refunds might arrive later than usual
Stricter Scrutiny = Slower Refunds?
If you’ve already filed your ITR and are wondering why your refund hasn’t hit your account, this could be the reason:
They’re verifying:
- Source of income
- Deductions and exemptions claimed
- Supporting documents (if applicable)
If you’re using ITR-2 or ITR-3, which include more complex details (like capital gains or business income), the verification process may take longer.
In contrast, simpler forms like ITR-1 or ITR-4 often get processed faster.
Did You Know? Refunds Can Earn You Interest
Here’s something not many people realize:
Under Section 244A of the Income Tax Act, if your refund is 10% or more of the total tax you paid, you’re eligible for interest on your refund.
That means:
Even if your refund is delayed, you might receive extra money as interest — provided your return is accurate and filed on time.
Department Might Ask for Extra Documents
If your return has missing or mismatched information, the Income Tax Department may ask for:
- Salary slips
- TDS certificates
- Investment proofs
- Any supporting document related to exemptions claimed
Sometimes, these requests come by post or email, and the re-verification process may take a few extra weeks — further delaying the refund.
How to Avoid Delays and Maximize Refund
Want to receive your refund faster — and possibly get more of it? Here’s what you can do:
File Early and Accurately
Don’t wait until September 15. Early filers tend to get quicker refunds, and the chances of errors go down.
Choose Your ITR Form Carefully
Pick the form that matches your income type. For example:
- Use ITR-1 for salaried income
- Use ITR-3 if you have business income or capital gains
New Regime vs Old Regime — Choose Wisely
Many taxpayers get confused between the two. In some cases, choosing the old tax regime helps you get a higher refund, especially if you’ve claimed deductions.
Complete Your e-Verification
Your ITR isn’t processed unless you verify it. You can do this easily through:
- Aadhaar OTP
- Net banking
- Offline via post (though slower)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will I get my income tax refund in 2025?
Refunds may take longer this year due to extra checks by the Income Tax Department. If everything is in order, expect it a few weeks after e-verification.
Q2. Will I get interest if my refund is delayed?
Yes — under Section 244A, the department pays interest if your refund is at least 10% of your total tax paid.
Q3. How can I avoid delay in refund?
File your ITR early, choose the correct form, verify your return, and avoid any data mismatches.
Q4. Why are ITR-2 and ITR-3 slower to process?
These forms include complex details like business income or capital gains — which require more thorough review.
Q5. Can I still claim old regime benefits in 2025?
Yes, but you must opt for it while filing. Sometimes, it gives better refunds if you’ve made eligible investments.