ITR Filing 2025: Preparing to File Income Tax Returns? Keep These Crucial Documents Handy

Key Highlights

• The Income Tax Department has already released the ITR forms for AY 2025–26.
• Forms include changes related to capital gains tax rules as per Budget 2024.
• Salaried individuals must wait for Form-16, but other document preparation can begin now.
• Selecting the correct ITR form is crucial to avoid rejection or errors.
• Defence personnel should also keep their special tax exemptions and documents ready.

With the ITR filing season for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26) officially underway, it’s time to gather your paperwork. Even though the due date for ITR filing is 31 July 2025, you can save yourself from last-minute stress by organising the required documents now. 

Whether you are a salaried employee, self-employed, investor, or defence personnel, getting your documents in order is the first step toward a smooth ITR filing process.

Please note: ITR Filing Extension Date is 15^th September 2025. 

Important Documents to Keep Ready for ITR Filing 2025

Gather the following documents before starting your income tax return filing:

1. Personal Identification

• PAN card
• Aadhaar card (Ensure Aadhaar and PAN are linked)

2. Income Proof

• Form-16 from all employers
• Salary slips, including foreign income, if any
• Bank account statements
• Form-26AS
• Annual Information Statement (AIS)
• Interest certificates from banks
• Capital gains statements from mutual funds or brokers
• Cryptocurrency transaction reports (for Virtual Digital Assets)

3. Tax Deduction Proofs

For Section 80C and 80CCD(1B):

• ELSS investment proof
• NPS contribution receipts
• Life insurance premium receipts

For Section 80D:

• Health insurance premium documents

For Section 80E:

• Interest certificate for education loan

For Section 24B:

• Home loan interest certificate (for deduction up to ₹2 lakh)

For Section 80G:

• Donation receipts to eligible institutions

4. House Rent & Property

• Rent agreement and receipts (to claim HRA)
• Home loan statements and interest certificates

5. Foreign Income and Assets

• Foreign bank account statements
• Investment details abroad
• Form 67 (to claim foreign tax credit)

6. High-Income Individuals

If your annual income exceeds ₹50 lakh, keep details of:

• Assets and liabilities
• To be reported in the ITR-2 AL schedule

Read More: 9 Key Changes in ITR-1 to ITR-4 for FY 2024-25 AY 2025-26

 

ITR Filing Documents for Defence Personnel

Defence personnel often enjoy specific exemptions and tax benefits. Ensure you keep these documents handy:

• Salary slips from CDA or PCDA
• Form-16 provided by the defence authorities
• Details of disability pension (if applicable, exempt under certain conditions)
• Receipts of investments made under Section 80C (PPF, NSC, LIC, etc.)
• Home loan and HRA documents, as applicable
• Details of gallantry award payments, which may be tax-exempt
• Leave encashment or gratuity documents (if retired during the FY)
• Any allowances such as field area, high-altitude, or special compensatory allowance, for exemption under Section 10

Choose the Right ITR Form

Using the correct ITR form is crucial. Even individuals with capital gains can now use ITR-1 (Sahaj) if their gains are under ₹1.25 lakh and there are no carried-forward losses. For high-income individuals or those with foreign income, use ITR-2 or ITR-3 accordingly.

Get Ready for a Smooth ITR Filing Experience

Filing your income tax return becomes simpler when your documents are in order. Use the checklist above to avoid errors, rejections, or notices from the Income Tax Department. Defence personnel should take extra care to include their unique exemptions and allowances.

Need expert help with ITR filing online? Visit udchalo.com/tax-services for hassle-free assistance tailored to defence personnel and their families. Let udChalo Finserv handle your taxes while you focus on your duty.

FAQs

1. When is the last date to file ITR for FY 2024–25?
   The deadline is 31 July 2025, unless extended by the government.
2. Can I file ITR without Form-16?
   Yes, if you have salary slips, AIS, and bank statements, you can file ITR without Form-16.
3. Is Form-26AS mandatory for ITR filing?
   Yes, it reflects tax deducted and deposited on your behalf and should match your ITR entries.
4. Which ITR form should I use in 2025?
   Depends on your income sources. Salaried with income under ₹50 lakh and no capital gains can use ITR-1.
5. What if PAN and Aadhaar are not linked?
   Your ITR will not be processed. Linking PAN and Aadhaar is mandatory.
6. Are crypto transactions taxable in ITR 2025?
   Yes, gains from VDAs must be reported under the appropriate schedule.
7. Do I need to attach documents with my ITR?
   No. You need not attach proofs while filing but retain them in case of scrutiny.
8. Can defence personnel claim HRA and home loan deductions?
   Yes, if applicable and relevant proofs are available.
9. What are the tax benefits for retired defence personnel?
   Pension is taxable, but gratuity and certain allowances may be exempt.
10. What if I switch between old and new regimes?
    Ensure you submit accurate declarations and preserve investment proofs in case of a regime switch.