Income Tax Refund: Still Waiting for Your Easy and Reliable Ways to Track Your ITR Status Online

Income Tax Refund: Filing an income tax return is an important responsibility, but for many taxpayers the process does not feel complete until the refund is credited to their bank account. After submitting the return, people often keep checking their account balance or email notifications, hoping for an update. While refund delays can create anxiety, the process of checking the income tax refund status is simple and transparent. Understanding why refunds are delayed and knowing how to track them online can reduce confusion and help taxpayers stay prepared.

Reasons Why Your Income Tax Refund Is Still Pending

One of the most common reasons for refund delays is additional verification by the Income Tax Department. When a return includes deduction claims, exemptions, or income details that require closer review, the processing timeline can increase. According to clarifications issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes, returns that show possible inconsistencies or incorrect claims are being examined carefully before refunds are released.

In some cases, taxpayers are asked to submit revised returns if information is missing or unclear. This step ensures that the refund amount is accurate and compliant with tax laws. Another important factor affecting timelines is the prioritization of refunds. Smaller refund amounts are often processed first, while larger or more complex cases may take longer. As per recent updates, remaining refunds are expected to be processed gradually, with many cases likely to be cleared by December 2025.

Common Issues That Cause Refund Delays Beyond 90 Days

Tax experts note that refund delays extending beyond 90 days are not unusual. One major cause is data mismatch. Differences between the income, tax deducted at source, or advance tax reported in the return and the figures reflected in Form 26AS, Annual Information Statement, or Taxpayer Information Summary can trigger further checks.

Another reason is selection for detailed scrutiny. If a return is picked up for verification by the Centralised Processing Centre or an assessing officer, the refund is placed on hold until the review is completed. Bank-related issues also play a significant role. Incorrect bank account numbers, failure to validate the account for electronic refund credit, or issues with PAN and Aadhaar linkage can all delay the refund process.

Additionally, refunds may be adjusted against outstanding tax demands from previous years under applicable tax provisions. Technical or system-related challenges during peak filing seasons can further slow down processing, especially when a large volume of returns is being handled simultaneously.

Steps to Check ITR Refund Status on the E-Filing Portal

The most reliable way to check your income tax refund status is through the official e-filing portal. Start by visiting incometax.gov.in and logging in with your user ID and password. Once logged in, navigate to the e-File section and select Income Tax Returns. Click on View Filed Returns to see a list of returns you have submitted.

Choose the relevant assessment year to access the status of your return. By selecting View Details, you can track the progress from submission to processing and refund issuance. The portal clearly displays whether the return is under processing, approved, or if the refund has already been sent to your bank account.

How to Check Income Tax Refund Status Using PAN

For taxpayers looking for a quicker method, checking the refund status using PAN is another convenient option. By visiting the TIN platform and entering your PAN along with the assessment year, you can instantly view whether the refund has been issued or is still under processing.

This method is helpful when you only need a brief update without logging into the full e-filing account. It provides basic information about the refund stage and helps you decide whether further action is required.

What to Do While Waiting for Your Refund

A delayed income tax refund does not automatically indicate an error or problem. In many cases, it is simply part of routine verification. Taxpayers should ensure that their bank details are accurate, the account is pre-validated, and PAN is correctly linked with Aadhaar. Regularly checking the refund status online and responding promptly to any notices or requests for clarification can prevent unnecessary delays.

Maintaining accurate records, reviewing Form 26AS and related statements before filing, and avoiding incorrect claims can significantly reduce the chances of refund hold-ups. Staying informed and patient is key, as the system eventually processes most refunds once all checks are completed.