ITR Refund Delays: Key Reasons, Expected Timelines and How to Track Your Refund
Even after the deadline for filing the ITR ended on 16 September, many taxpayers are still awaiting their refunds. Incorrect bank information, mismatch of Aadhaar with PAN, or any other similar issue that needs verification generally delays refund disbursal
What Could Be Holding Up Your ITR Refund?
Generally, the Income Tax Department is quick to credit refunds within four to five weeks after you complete e-verification. Even this year, many people are confronting delays. One of the most common reasons is incorrect bank information: wrong IFSC, account number, or mismatched account holder name that prevents the refund from being processed smoothly.
Another significant cause of delay is the mismatch between the information provided in the return with the official departmental records. In case of an unlinked Aadhaar and PAN, or a mismatch in personal details, the refund may stall until corrections are made. Sometimes, if there is a need for further documentation on account of certain deductions or tax credits, the return gets deeper scrutiny, thereby delaying it.
To check on the status of your refund, log in to the income tax e-filing portal, click “e-File,” then select “Income Tax Returns” and click “View Filed Returns.” Click “View Details” to view the current status. In cases where your refund has been marked ‘processed’ and is not credited into your account or if more than five weeks have passed, verify the bank details or check your email for any communication from the department regarding pending actions.
