ITR Refund Delays Worry Taxpayers Amid Data Mismatches and Increased Scrutiny

A large number of taxpayers who filed their Income Tax Returns (ITRs) early for the financial year 2024-25 are still waiting for their refunds. Despite filing as early as June, many have not received their refunds even as September draws to a close.

Why Are Refunds Getting Delayed?

According to tax experts, the primary reason for the delay is enhanced verification and stricter scrutiny of returns. Refunds are being held up particularly for taxpayers:

• Claiming high deductions
• Reporting capital gains or foreign assets
• Opting for special TDS exemptions
• Filing under the old tax regime with larger deductions

A common issue is mismatched TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) data. The details submitted by taxpayers often don’t match the information available with the Income Tax Department. This triggers additional checks, delaying refund processing.

Other reasons include:

• Incomplete e-verification
• Incorrect or unvalidated bank account details
• Discrepancies between Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement (AIS)
• PAN not linked to the taxpayer’s bank account

While straightforward, salary-based ITRs are typically processed within 2 to 5 weeks, returns involving business income, foreign income, self-employment, or NRIs are taking significantly longer.

Latest ITR Filing Stats (As of September 22, 2025)

• Total Registered Taxpayers: 13.49 crore
• Returns Filed for AY 2025-26: 7.58 crore
• Returns Verified: 6.87 crore
• Returns Processed at CPC: 5.01 crore

What Should You Do If Your Refund Is Delayed?

1. Check Refund Status Online

• Log in to the e-filing portal: https://eportal.incometax.gov.in
• Go to the “Refund/Demand Status” section
• Ensure your bank account is pre-validated and check for any mismatch notices

2.  File an Online Grievance

• Navigate to the "Refund" category under grievances
• Submit the complaint and note the acknowledgement number for tracking

3. Contact CPC Helpdesk

Reach out for assistance using the helpline numbers below:

• 1800 103 0025
• 1800 419 0025
• +91-80-46122000
• +91-80-61464700
  (Have your PAN ready when calling)

4. Raise the Issue via Social Media

The Income Tax Department is active on social platforms and often responds to refund-related concerns.

5. Use Official Grievance Portal

Submit your issue here:
👉 ITD Grievance Redressal Link

6. Escalate via CPGRAMS (Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System)
If delays persist despite multiple follow-ups, file a complaint through CPGRAMS for higher-level redressal.