Filing income taxes isn’t always a very smooth and easy process. Sometimes refunds are delayed or get late, TDS doesn’t match or the e-filing portal throws up various errors. To help the taxpayers deal with such types of issues, the Income Tax Department has set up a grievance redressal system.
But once you raise a concern or grievance, the big question is: how do you check its status?
This guide will walk you through everything in plain and simple language: what a grievance is, how to track it, its timelines and what to do if it isn’t resolved.
What is an Income Tax Grievance?
A grievance is basically any problem you face while dealing with the Income Tax Department. Some common ones include:
- Refund not received on time
- Errors in return processing
- PAN not linked with Aadhaar
- TDS credit not showing in Form 26AS
- Technical issues on the e-filing portal
The grievance system ensures that such problems are handled fairly and within a reasonable time.
Where Can You File and Track Grievances?
You have multiple options to raise and check grievances:
- Income Tax e-Filing Portal (incometax.gov.in) – It is the most popular option for filing and tracking grievances.
- CPGRAMS (pgportal.gov.in) – A government-wide grievance system, also covering Income Tax.
- Aayakar Sampark Kendra (Helpline: 1800-180-1961) – It is for the filing or checking of grievances over the phone.
- Local Assessing Officer (AO) or Tax Office – It is useful for cases that need a personal follow-up.
Steps to Check Grievance Status on the Income Tax Portal
If you filed through the e-filing portal:
- Go to incometax.gov.in
- Log in with your PAN, password, and captcha/OTP
- On the dashboard, click ‘e-Nivaran’
- Select ‘View Grievance Status’
- Enter your Grievance ID (or simply view all filed grievances)
You’ll see details like the date filed, current status (open/under process/closed), and officer remarks.
How to Check Grievance Status on CPGRAMS?
If you filed through CPGRAMS:
- Visit pgportal.gov.in
- Click on ‘View Status’
- Enter your Registration Number and registered email/mobile
- You’ll get updates like officer assigned, remarks, and expected resolution time
Common Status Updates
When you check, you may see one of these terms:
- Open/Registered – Filed but not yet reviewed
- Under Process – Assigned to an officer
- Action Taken – Steps initiated, remarks added
- Resolved/Closed – Case marked as completed
- Rejected – Complaint not accepted (duplicate/invalid)
Timelines for Resolution
- Simple issues (like login errors, password reset): 7–15 working days.
- Complex issues (refund delays, TDS mismatch, rectification): 30–60 days.
- CPGRAMS: It can be expected within 30 days (may extend for complex cases).
Tips for Faster Resolution
- Provide complete details (PAN, year, acknowledgement number, and the issue details).
- Upload supporting documents (refund statement, bank proof, error screenshot).
- Check the status regularly and reply if more details are requested.
- Escalate unresolved cases to CPGRAMS or higher authorities.
Extra Tip: Always keep a copy of your grievance acknowledgement number. It acts as proof and is essential when following up with higher authorities.
What to Do if Your Grievance Isn’t Resolved?
- Re-file with more details
- Escalate on CPGRAMS (monitored by the Ministry of Finance)
- Approach the Income Tax Ombudsman
- As a last step, file a writ petition in High Court
Benefits of Online Grievance Tracking
- Transparency – You know who’s handling your case
- Time-saving – No need to visit offices
- Accountability – Officers work within timelines
- Paperless – All records stored online
Another important benefit is that the system generates a digital trail of the communication. This ensures that every interaction is documented and well-prepared, making it easier to prove the delays or mishandling if you escalate your case. For the frequent taxpayers, online grievance tracking also helps in identifying or recognising the recurring issues, which can then be addressed proactively in future filings.
Conclusion
Checking the status of your income tax grievance has now become easy, simple and fast with e-Nivaran and CPGRAMS. If you provide correct and accurate details, keep track of your case and also follow up when needed, your issues can be resolved much quicker and faster. These online platforms make the process clear and let you stay in control without visiting the tax office.
Always provide all necessary information at the start. This minimises the repeated follow-ups, and that saves time. Keep a record of your grievance number, emails and responses, so you can check the back easily.
By actively managing your tax issues—checking recent updates, responding on time and knowing how to escalate—you avoid delays and frustration. Staying informed and patient helps your tax matters get resolved smoothly and gives you peace of mind.
FAQs
1. How long does it usually take to resolve a grievance?
Most are resolved within 15–30 days, depending on complexity. Some complex cases may take longer, but you will receive updates at each stage.
2. Can I check grievance status without logging in?
- On the e-filing portal: Login is required.
- On CPGRAMS: Only the registration number is needed.
3. What if my grievance shows ‘Closed’ but isn’t solved?
You can re-file with more details, provide additional supporting documents, or escalate via CPGRAMS for further review.
4. Is there any fee to file or track a grievance?
No, filing and tracking grievances is completely free of cost.
5. Can I withdraw my grievance?
Yes, you can withdraw it if the issue is resolved before the official closure.
6. What’s the difference between e-Nivaran and CPGRAMS?
- e-Nivaran: Only for Income Tax grievances.
- CPGRAMS: Covers grievances across all government departments.
7. Can I track multiple grievances at once?
Yes, all grievances linked to your login or registration number are visible and can be tracked simultaneously.
8. What details do I need for CPGRAMS tracking?
You need your registration number and the email or mobile number used during filing.
9. Who monitors grievance resolution?
The CBDT and the Ministry of Finance oversee the process to ensure timely resolution.
10. What if I face technical issues while checking the status?
Call 1800-103-0025 or email e-filingwebmanager@incometax.gov.in. You can also refer to the help section on the e-filing portal for common issues and solutions.
