Why Your Income Tax Refund Might Be Delayed This Year

If you’re waiting on a tax refund, and it’s taking longer than usual, you’re not alone. The Income Tax Department is taking a closer look at returns this year, especially where deductions or exemptions don’t fully match their records.

Here’s what’s going on—and what you should do.

🔍 More Checks = More Delays

The department is flagging returns that seem to have errors or unsupported claims. If something looks off, your refund may be put on hold until the issue is fixed.

⏰ December 31, 2025: A Hard Deadline

This date is extremely important. It’s the last chance to file:

• a belated return, or

• a revised return (to fix mistakes)

After this date, even genuine errors cannot be corrected through revision.

📩 “NUDGE” Messages from the Tax Department

Many taxpayers are receiving emails or SMS alerts (called NUDGE notifications). These messages are basically a reminder saying:

“Your return has some inconsistencies—please correct them before the deadline.”

They’re meant to give you a chance to fix things voluntarily.

⚠️ Common Reasons Returns Get Flagged

Some frequent problem areas include:

• Claiming deductions (like 80C, 80D, HRA) that weren’t reported to your employer

• Filing under the old tax regime while your TDS was deducted under the new regime

• Mismatches between your ITR and:

  • Form 26AS

  • AIS / TIS

• Incorrect HRA, LTA, insurance, or donation claims

• Forgetting to report income other than salary (interest, capital gains, mutual fund sales, crypto, etc.)

🚨 What Happens If You Ignore These Issues

If mistakes aren’t corrected:

• Your refund may stay stuck

• Your return could be selected for deeper scrutiny

• You might receive:

  • Additional tax demands

  • Interest

  • Penalties

✅ What Experts Recommend

If you get any intimation or notice:

• Review your return carefully

• Fix the errors

• File a revised return before December 31, 2025

Once that deadline passes, the door to revision is closed—even for honest mistakes.