Many taxpayers who filed their Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25 in advance are yet to receive their refunds. As the September end nears, many of those who filed their returns as early as June are still awaiting.
Why are refunds delayed?
Tax experts say that the delay in refunds is primarily due to additional verification and stringent scrutiny. Taxpayers with higher refunds, those claiming larger deductions, or those seeking special exemptions on TDS are experiencing delays.
The mismatch occurs because the TDS data available with the government does not match the TDS details shown by the taxpayer in their return.
Refunds may also be delayed if the taxpayer’s bank account details are not properly updated or if e-verification has not been completed.
Typically, salary-based returns are processed within 2 to 5 weeks. However, cases involving capital gains, business income, foreign assets, or higher deductions are taking longer to process. Specifically, taxpayers under the old tax regime claiming large deductions, self-employed professionals, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), and those declaring foreign assets are facing more scrutiny, leading to delayed refunds.
Refunds are also delayed when details in Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement do not match. Taxpayers who have not previously linked their PAN (Permanent Account Number) with their bank account are also experiencing delays.
As of September 22, 2025, the number of taxpayers registered with income tax offices is 13.49 crore. Out of these, 7.58 crore taxpayers have filed returns for the assessment year 2025-26. So far, 6.87 crore returns have been verified. The number of returns processed at the CPC (Central Processing Centre) is 5.01 crore.
What can a taxpayer do if their refund is getting delayed?
- Log in to the e-filing portal
Check your refund or demand status. Ensure your bank account is pre-validated and confirm that there are no mismatch notices.
- File an online grievance
Go to the “Refund” category on the portal. Submit the grievance to receive an acknowledgement number for follow-up.
- Contact CPC helpline for escalation
Phone numbers:
1800 103 0025
1800 419 0025
+91-80-46122000
+91-80-61464700
Keep your PAN details handy when calling.
- Raise the issue via social media
The Income Tax Department monitors grievances raised this way.
Use this link to submit: https://eportal.incometax.gov.in/iec/foservices/#/fo-greivance/submit/ormlanding.
One can also complain via Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System in case of persistent delays.
