If you have also filed ITR and the refund is getting delayed, there can be some common reasons behind it. Even a small mistake can cause a delay in your tax refund. Usually, if you have filed the return correctly and verified it on time, the refund can come in 7 to 15 days.
The last date for filing income tax returns is near. This time the last date is on 15 September 2025 and crores of taxpayers across the country have already filed their returns. Meanwhile, many people have already received their refunds but if you are among those who have not received their tax refund yet, then there is no need to panic.
There can be some common reasons for the delay in refund, which is important to understand. In most cases, if you have filed the return correctly and verified it on time, the refund can come in 7 to 15 days. In some cases, it is received in less than a week. But if there is any error, the matter can drag on. Let us know what can be the common reasons for the delay in refund…
Incorrect or incomplete bank details
If you have made a mistake in the bank account number, IFSC code or name while filing the return, the refund will not be transferred. So always ensure that the bank details are complete and correct.
Difference between Returns and Form 26AS/AIS
There may be a delay in return processing if there is a discrepancy between the return filed by you and the Form 26AS or AIS (Annual Information Statement) with the Income Tax Department. For example, if you have not mentioned any income or have wrongly claimed TDS credit.
ITR verification not done
Filing a return is not enough, it is also important to verify it. Without e-verification, your return will not be processed and you will not get a refund.
Departmental inquiry or scrutiny
In some cases, the Income Tax Department suspects that a large amount has been claimed in the return or there may be some discrepancy. Such returns are held back for investigation, which leads to delay in refund.
Adjustment of outstanding tax
If you have any previous tax dues, the new refund can be adjusted against that. In such cases, the department sends a notice and the refund is stopped.
What to do if there is a delay?
If you have filed your return on time and have also verified it and have not received your refund yet, then first log in to the Income Tax Department website and check your ITR processing status. If it has been processed and the refund status is showing Issued, then check your bank statement as well. If you see some discrepancy, you can request for refund reissue. If your refund takes more than 30 days, then you can also get interest under the Income Tax Act. However, this rule applies with some conditions.
