Last Updated on August 17, 2023 by Kanakkupillai
Types of Income Tax Notices for Salaried Individuals
Navigating the intricacies of income tax regulations can be daunting for salaried individuals. One critical aspect of this journey is awareness of the various income tax notices that one might receive from the income tax department. These notices can range from routine intimation notifications to more complex scrutiny assessments. This article delves into the six distinct types of income tax notices salaried individuals could encounter, shedding light on their implications and response timelines.
1. Section 143(1) Notice: Intimation Notice
The Section 143(1) notice, also known as the intimation notice, is issued after the income tax department processes the filed Income Tax Return (ITR). This notice informs the taxpayer whether their ITR calculations align with the department’s assessment. If a discrepancy is found, the notice will detail whether a refund is due or additional taxes are payable. Remarkably, this notice is sent even when there is no mismatch or error in the ITR. Taxpayers are not required to respond unless there is a tax demand, in which case they must do so within 30 days from the issuance date.
2. Section 139(9) Notice: Defective ITR
Section 139(9) notices are dispatched when errors are identified in the filed ITR. Common reasons include discrepancies in reporting house rent allowance, unreported income despite TDS claims, or missing salary components. Taxpayers are requested to correct these errors by submitting a revised ITR. These notices can be issued within nine months from the financial year’s end in which the ITR was filed. Responses generally have a 15-day timeframe.
3. Section 142 Notice: Inquiry Before Scrutiny Assessment
When an individual earns income surpassing the basic exemption limit but fails to file their ITR, a Section 142 notice might be issued. This notice calls for clarification on the reasons behind the non-filing and may require the submission of financial records. The individual must address the queries raised by the tax department within the stipulated time frame, usually 15 days.
4. Section 143(2) Notice: Scrutiny Assessment
Section 143(2) notices involve a detailed assessment of the ITR to verify the accuracy of claimed incomes and deductions. This scrutiny assessment ensures that all submitted information is truthful and satisfactory. The notice typically includes a questionnaire and a list of required documents. The time frame for issuing this notice is within three months from the financial year’s end in which the return was filed. Responding to this notice involves an online process where individuals upload necessary documents, and responses are typically required within 15 days.
5. Section 148 Notice: Income Escaping Assessment
The Section 148 notice is sent when the income tax department believes that certain income was not reported in the previous year’s ITR. Before issuing this notice, a show-cause notice is provided to allow the taxpayer to present reasons against reassessment. The notice period depends on the amount of unreported income, ranging from three to ten years, with different timeframes for income above and below Rs 50 lakhs. Responses to this notice must be made within 30 days.
6. Section 245 Notice: Adjustment of Tax Payable with Refund
A Section 245 notice authorizes the income tax department to adjust the current year’s income tax refunds against outstanding tax dues from previous years. If taxpayers disagree or have already paid the outstanding demand, they can respond with evidence of payment and a request to reconsider the proposed adjustment. A specific time frame does not limit the issuance time for this notice. Responses are generally expected within 30 days.
Conclusion
For salaried individuals, understanding the nuances of income tax notices is essential for compliance with tax regulations. These notices, from intimation to assessment, are crucial in maintaining a seamless tax journey. By comprehending the types of notices, their implications, and response timelines, individuals can proactively address tax matters and ensure a hassle-free experience with the income tax department.
