How do I get an ITR refund and how long does it take?

⚡ Short answerAn income-tax refund arises when your TDS, advance tax or self-assessment tax paid exceeds your actual liability. File your ITR, e-verify it within 30 days, and the refund is credited directly to your pre-validated bank account. Most refunds are processed within 7–30 days of e-verification, though complex returns can take longer.

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How to claim it

File the correct ITR form, ensure your bank account is pre-validated and PAN-linked, and e-verify (Aadhaar OTP is fastest). The refund follows automatically once the return is processed under Section 143(1).

If the refund is delayed

Check the refund status on the income-tax portal or NSDL. Delays usually mean the bank account isn't validated, there's an AIS/26AS mismatch, or an outstanding demand is being adjusted under Section 245. The department pays interest under Section 244A on delayed refunds.

Related questions

Why is my refund taking so long?

The most common causes are an unvalidated or PAN-unlinked bank account, a mismatch between your ITR and AIS/Form 26AS, or an adjustment against a past demand under Section 245. Fix the cause on the portal.

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General information for AY 2026-27, not professional advice. Rules change with each Finance Act / notification and depend on your facts — verify with a licensed CA or advocate before acting.