Overview

• Over 1.16 crore ITRs have been filed and 1.09 crore verified for AY 2025–26 but most refunds remain on hold due to delayed system rollouts.
• Utilities for complex ITR forms are still pending release, forcing the government to extend the filing deadline to September 15.
• Automated matching of ITR data with AIS/Form 26AS and the flagging of unusually large refund claims have introduced additional verification layers.
• The department has been deducting current-year refunds against pending assessments and tax demands from previous years.
• Taxpayers are entitled to interest under Section 244A for any refund delays beyond the stipulated processing time.