Simple and Easy Guide to Filing ITR by Yourself
Every year, as the month of July approaches, millions of people begin preparing to file their Income Tax Returns (ITR). Most people seek help from a Chartered Accountant (CA), but did you know that if you have certain documents ready, you can easily file your ITR yourself—without any expert help or extra cost?
In this article, we will tell you about 8 essential documents that make filing your ITR much easier. These documents not only simplify the process but also help prevent mistakes and avoid tax-related issues.
1. Form 16 – Essential for Salaried Employees
What is Form 16?
Form 16 is a certificate issued by your employer that contains a detailed summary of your total salary and the tax deducted during the year. It comes in two parts:
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Part A: Includes PAN, TAN, employer details, and TDS information
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Part B: Shows salary breakup, HRA, standard deductions, 80C details, etc.
Why It’s Important:
When filing ITR, Form 16 helps you accurately report your income and the tax already paid, reducing the chance of errors.
2. TDS Certificates – Proof of Tax Deducted
What are TDS Certificates?
If tax has been deducted on any of your income (like bank interest, rent, etc.), the concerned institution issues a TDS certificate. Main types include:
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Form 16A: For TDS on bank deposits (FD/RD)
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Form 16B: For TDS on property sale
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Form 16C: For TDS on rent received
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Form 16D: For TDS from other sources
Why They Matter:
These forms tell you how much tax has already been deducted, so you can claim it while filing your ITR.
3. Capital Gain Statement – For Investment Profits
Where to Get It:
If you sold shares, mutual funds, or property during the year, collect a capital gains statement from your broker or mutual fund house.
How It Helps:
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Helps calculate short-term and long-term gains
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Assists in applying correct tax rates
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Allows you to claim any eligible exemptions
4. AIS and Form 26AS – Your Complete Tax History
What Are AIS and Form 26AS?
These are statements issued by the Income Tax Department showing all your financial transactions, such as:
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Bank interest
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Stock trades
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TDS deductions
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Refunds
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Other income sources
Why You Need Them:
They help you verify which incomes and taxes are already recorded by the tax department, so you don’t miss or duplicate anything—avoiding tax notices or penalties.
5. Foreign Income & Unlisted Share Details
Have Foreign Accounts or Investments?
If you have foreign bank accounts or hold shares in foreign or unlisted Indian companies, it's mandatory to report them in your ITR.
Essential Documents:
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Foreign bank statements
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Investment proofs
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Valuation reports for unlisted shares
Be Cautious:
Hiding such information may be treated as tax evasion. Always disclose all foreign assets and income accurately.
6. Bank Statements & Interest Certificates
Why Bank Statements?
They show all credits and debits in your account, especially if you earn rental income, freelance income, or received gifts.
Why Interest Certificates?
If you earned interest from fixed deposits or savings accounts, get an interest certificate from your bank or post office. It helps declare correct interest income.
7. Documents for Tax Deductions (80C, 80D, etc.)
If You’re Using the Old Tax Regime:
You can claim various deductions to reduce your taxable income. Make sure to have the following proofs:
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Section 80C: Investments in PPF, LIC, NSC, tuition fees
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Section 80D: Health insurance premiums
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Section 80G: Donations
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Section 80E: Education loan interest
Why Important:
These documents help you claim deductions and save tax.
8. PAN, Aadhaar, and Bank Account Details
Before Filing ITR, Make Sure:
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Your PAN and Aadhaar are linked
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All bank account details are updated and correct
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You have one active bank account for refunds
What If Details Are Wrong?
Incorrect bank information may delay or block your tax refund. So double-check and keep everything updated.
How to File ITR (Quick Step-by-Step Guide)
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Go to www.incometax.gov.in
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Log in using your PAN credentials
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Go to “e-File” → “Income Tax Return”
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Choose Assessment Year 2024–25
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Upload required documents and enter details
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Review your tax calculations
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Submit and e-verify your return
Conclusion: Filing ITR Yourself is Easy with These Documents
If you have the 8 documents mentioned above ready, you won’t need a CA to file your ITR. You’ll save money, gain better control over your finances, and become self-reliant in managing your taxes.
Remember:
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Accuracy of documents is key
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Never hide any income
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File your return before the deadline to avoid penalties
✅ Bonus Tips for Hassle-Free ITR Filing
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🔍 Always cross-check AIS and Form 26AS
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📅 File ITR before 31st July to avoid penalties
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🔐 Don't forget to e-verify, or your return will be considered invalid
If you found this article helpful, share it with your friends and family—because right documents = easy tax filing! 💡
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