How to File ITR-1?

ITR-1, commonly known as SAHAJ, is a simplified Income Tax Return form designed for individuals earning income up to ₹50 lakh from sources such as salary, one house property, and other sources (excluding lottery winnings and income from horse races). This form is tailored for salaried taxpayers and pensioners, making tax filing a breeze. However, individuals with income from business, capital gains, multiple properties, or foreign assets are ineligible to file ITR-1. To ensure a hassle-free filing experience, you’ll need essential documents such as Form 16, bank statements, TDS certificates, and interest income details. The structure of the ITR-1 form is straightforward, consisting of sections for personal details, income, deductions, and tax computation. Filing ITR-1 online via the Income Tax Portal is a user-friendly process that involves registering on the portal, filling out the form accurately, and submitting it electronically. This guide will help you navigate each step of the ITR-1 filing process efficiently.

What is ITR-1?

ITR-1, also known as SAHAJ, is a simplified Income Tax Return form introduced by the Income Tax Department of India. It is specifically designed for individual taxpayers with straightforward income sources, such as salaries, pensions, or single house property. This form is ideal for taxpayers whose annual income does not exceed ₹50 lakh and who do not have income from business, profession, or capital gains. ITR-1 aims to streamline the tax filing process for individuals with basic income structures, making compliance simpler and more accessible.

Who is Eligible to File ITR-1?

ITR-1 is applicable to resident individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • Income Sources:
    • Income from salary or pension.
    • Income from one house property (excluding cases where there is a loss brought forward from previous years).
    • Income from other sources, such as interest on fixed deposits, recurring deposits, or savings accounts.
  • Income Limit: The total income should not exceed ₹50 lakh in a financial year.
  • Residency: The taxpayer must be a resident (non-residents and RNORs cannot file ITR-1).

This form is ideal for salaried employees, pensioners, and individuals earning minimal interest income or rental income from a single property.

Who Cannot File ITR-1?

Individuals falling under the following categories are not eligible to file ITR-1:

  1. Non-Residents or RNORs: Only resident individuals can use ITR-1.
  2. Higher Income: Those with a total income exceeding ₹50 lakh annually.
  3. Multiple Properties: Individuals earning income from more than one house property.
  4. Business or Professional Income: Taxpayers earning income from business or profession cannot use this form.
  5. Capital Gains: Individuals with income from capital gains (short-term or long-term) are not eligible.
  6. Agricultural Income: If the agricultural income exceeds ₹5,000, ITR-1 cannot be used.
  7. Foreign Income or Assets: Individuals with income from foreign sources, foreign assets, or holding a directorship in a foreign company.
  8. TDS under Section 194N: Taxpayers who have TDS deducted under Section 194N (on cash withdrawals).
  9. Others: Those claiming deductions under Sections 90, 90A, or 91, which relate to relief from double taxation.

If an individual does not meet the eligibility criteria for ITR-1, they must explore other forms such as ITR-2, ITR-3, or ITR-4 based on their income structure.

What is the Structure of the ITR-1 Form?

The ITR-1 form is designed to capture an individual’s income, deductions, and tax liability in a simple format. It is divided into the following sections:

  1. Part A – General Information:

    • Personal details like name, PAN, Aadhaar, address, and filing status (original or revised return).
    • Bank account details for tax refunds.
  2. Part B – Gross Total Income:

  3. Part C – Deductions and Total Income:

    • Deductions under Chapter VI-A (e.g., 80C, 80D).
    • Computation of total income after deductions.
  4. Part D – Tax Computation and Tax Status:

    • Tax payable or refund due.
    • Details of advance tax or TDS.
  5. Schedule IT and TDS:

  6. Verification:

    • Declaration confirming the correctness of information provided in the form, along with the taxpayer’s signature or e-verification.

 

How to File ITR-1 (SAHAJ) Online on Income Tax Portal?

Filing ITR-1 online is a quick and straightforward process using the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal. Follow these steps:

  1. Login to the Income Tax Portal:

  2. Navigate to the Filing Section:

    • Go to the “e-File” menu and select “Income Tax Return.”
    • Choose the assessment year and filing type as “Original/Revised.”
  3. Select ITR-1 (SAHAJ):

    • Choose ITR-1 from the available forms.
    • Select the appropriate filing mode (online or offline).
  4. Fill in the Details:

    • Provide personal details, income details, and tax-saving deductions.
    • The system will auto-populate certain details (e.g., TDS). Verify and make corrections if needed.
  5. Verify Tax Liability:

    • Check the tax liability or refund due based on the details entered.
  6. Pre-validate Bank Account:

    • Ensure your bank account is pre-validated for refunds, if applicable.
  7. Review and Submit:

    • Verify all details, save the draft, and proceed to submit the return.
    • Select your preferred verification method (e.g., Aadhaar OTP, EVC, or sending a signed ITR-V to CPC).
  8. E-Verification:

    • Complete e-verification immediately after submission to process your return faster.

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