The new Income Tax E-Filing Portal, named E-Filing 2.0, has ushered in a digital revolution for Indian taxpayers. This modern platform is a pivotal step in making income tax return filing simpler and more convenient.
With this post, you will get an understanding of the standout features of the E-Filing Portal 2.0, ensuring your tax filing experience is as smooth as possible.
Benefits of Using the Income Tax E-Filing Portal
- Fast and Efficient Processing of Tax Returns
The E-Filing 2.0 portal is engineered for speed and efficiency. Taxpayers can expect faster processing of their filed returns, ensuring quicker refunds. This feature not only saves time but also ensures that taxpayers receive their refunds promptly, making the tax filing process hassle-free.
- ITR Preparation Software for Everyone
One of the standout features of the new portal is its user-friendly ITR preparation software. This software is freely available to all taxpayers and is designed to simplify the return-filing process. Even if you have limited knowledge of income tax laws, this software can guide you through the process. It automatically displays most of the required information based on available data, reducing the scope for errors and making tax filing accessible to all.
3. Responsive Service
The E-Filing 2.0 portal is equipped with an integrated call centre, providing immediate assistance to taxpayers’ queries. Additionally, it offers a range of educational resources, including tutorials, informative videos, and a chatbot that can address common issues faced by taxpayers. This enhanced support system ensures that users can navigate the platform with confidence and ease.
4. Streamlined Interaction with a Single Dashboard
The portal introduces a unified dashboard that aggregates all interactions, uploads, and pending actions linked to your Permanent Account Number (PAN). This feature streamlines communication between taxpayers and the tax department. It allows users to promptly respond to communications, submit documents, and view all departmental correspondence in one convenient location.
5. Diverse Payment Options
The new portal expands payment options for taxpayers, making the tax payment process more flexible. You can choose from various payment methods, including RTGS/NEFT, credit cards, UPI, and net banking. These diverse payment options enable users to select the most convenient method for making their tax payments, thereby promoting digital transactions and reducing the hassles associated with traditional payment methods.
6. User-Friendly Mobile Application
To enhance the taxpayer experience, the Income Tax Department has launched a mobile app called “AIS for Taxpayers.” This app allows taxpayers to access their Annual Information Statement (AIS) and provide valuable feedback to the tax department. The application provides comprehensive transaction details, ensuring that taxpayers remain well-informed.
How to Access the E-Filing Tax Portal
1. Visit the E-Filing portal’s official website, and click on the “Register” option at the top-right corner.
2. Select your “User Type” and enter your PAN details, then click “Continue.” If the PAN is already registered or invalid, an error message will be displayed.
3. A “Basic Detail Page” will appear. Enter all mandatory information, including your name, date of birth or date of incorporation, gender (if applicable), and residential status as per your PAN. Click “Continue.”
4. After the PAN is validated, a “Contact Details Page” will appear for individual taxpayers. Enter your contact information, including your primary mobile number, email ID, and address. Click “Continue.”
5. Two separate OTPs will be sent to your primary mobile number and email ID, as mentioned in step 4. Enter these 6-digit OTPs and click “Continue.”
6. Review and validate the basic and contact details as displayed, and click “Confirm.”
7. You will receive a message confirming your successful registration.
Getting Started with E-Filing
1. Visit the official Income Tax E-Filing website and click on “Login.”
2. Enter your username and password and click “Continue.”
3. Click on the “e-file” tab and then select “File Income Tax Return.”
4. Choose the “Assessment year” and “Mode of Filing” for which you want to file your return.
5. Select your category as a taxpayer, such as an Individual, Hindu Undivided Family, or other options.
6. Choose the relevant return form based on your category and income details.
7. Indicate the reason for filing your income tax return and confirm the provided information.
8. Review the pre-filled details, and proceed to make the tax payment.
Conclusion The new Income Tax E-Filing Portal (E-Filing 2.0) is a game-changer for taxpayers. With its enhanced features, it simplifies the tax filing process and offers valuable support. To make the most of these services and ensure a seamless experience, taxpayers should familiarise themselves with the registration process and be aware of common filing mistakes to avoid.