We file income tax return and if there is a refund claim then it makes us joyous with a hope that we will soon get this money back in our account. But when this wait becomes longer, it becomes frustrating enough. Though, people should get their refund back within few months but sometimes it takes longer than that, may be 3 or 4 years. If latter is the case, then one must take help from RTI. In this article we will learn to check income tax refund status online and if its pending for long, then how to make use of RTI so as to expedite the process.
Online Checking Income Tax Refund Status
Before cribbing about the delay in getting your income tax refund, it is a better idea to check your refund status online. For checking the status online, you should know your PAN number and assessment number for which the claim is pending. The process is simple, simply visit https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/oltas/refundstatuslogin.html enter your details and submit.
The result will show you the following details:
- Mode of payment
- Reference number
- Status (status of refund)
- Date
- Speed Post Reference No.
In case you feel the necessity of going RTI way, the reference number of your status will be used for communications.
If for any reasons, you could not or does not want to make use of this site, then the other available options are – you can contact SBI’s help desk or can also contact Aaykar Sampark Kendra.
How to file RTI application for income tax refund status
If you are not able to get clarity on your refund status and one year has already lapsed, then the next step you can take is to file RTI against income tax department. In such case, you should address your RTI application to CPIO officer. Information related to CPIO can be taken from the site www.incometaxindia.gov.in . By following this procedure, you can get to know the reasons of delay in your income tax refund. If you have pending claims for say 3 different years, then it will be better to file 3 RTIs rather than merging them all in one.
What to do while filing income tax return?
While you are filing income tax return and there is a refund claim, you need to be vigilant and check and recheck certain things. Following are few things that are required to be taken care:
1) Address – While filing income tax return, people often write their temporary address. Now, if the return amount is send through cheque, it will reach that address only. Now, if you have already left this place, then you will not be able to collect your cheque. For this reason, it is always advisable to write your permanent address in your return.
2) Account number and bank details – Even if you have written one wrong number this will change your entire account number and you will miss the return amount from getting credited in to your account. Therefore, check it multiple times before sending your return. Similarly, check your other details again and again like your bank’s name, IFSC code, etc.
3) E-filing – E-filing is always faster in comparison to manual filing. However, if for some reasons, you cannot submit your income tax return online, then you can take a service of a chartered accountant and delegate him the complete responsibility.
If your income tax return is pending for long, don’t be stressed and upset, check your refund status online and if required, file RTI to fasten up the refund process.
