Many taxpayers who filed their Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the Assessment Year 2025–26 are wondering why their refund hasn’t been credited yet — even after successful verification. If you’re one of them, the issue might not be with the Income Tax Department but with a few small errors that often go unnoticed.
Here are three common mistakes that could be delaying your ITR refund — and how to fix them before it’s too late.
1️⃣ Bank Account Not Pre-Validated or Linked with PAN
One of the top reasons for refund delays is non-validated or inactive bank accounts.
The Income Tax Department only issues refunds to pre-validated and PAN-linked bank accounts. If your refund status shows “failed” or “pending for credit,” this could be the reason.
How to fix:
- Log in to https://www.incometax.gov.in
- Go to Profile → My Bank Accounts
- Ensure your account is pre-validated and linked with PAN
- If not, update or add a valid account and revalidate it
2️⃣ ITR Verified Late or Not Yet Processed
Many taxpayers file returns before the due date but forget to verify their ITR within the allowed time frame (30 days from filing).
Unverified returns are treated as invalid, meaning your return hasn’t legally been filed yet and your refund won’t be processed.
How to fix:
- Log in to the portal and check under “e-Verify Return” status
- Complete e-verification via Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or EVC
- Once verified, processing usually takes 20–45 days
3️⃣ Mismatch Between TDS, Income, or Bank Details
Another common reason is data mismatch — when the income or TDS details entered in the return don’t match the data in Form 26AS or AIS. Even small differences can hold up refund processing.
How to fix:
- Download Form 26AS and AIS from the portal
- Compare them with the ITR details you filed
- If errors are found, revise your return under Section 139(5) to correct them
💡 Pro Tip:
If your ITR has been processed but the refund is still not credited, check your refund status on the TIN-NSDL portal. It shows whether the refund has been sent to your bank or failed due to account issues.
🧾 Final Takeaway
Most refund delays are due to simple verification or account linking errors, not technical issues. Make sure your bank account is active, your ITR is verified on time, and your income details match official records.
If everything checks out and the refund still hasn’t arrived, you can raise a grievance through the Income Tax e-filing portal or call the CPC helpline at 1800 103 4455.
📌 FAQs
1. How long does it take to get an ITR refund after verification?
Usually within 20–45 days, depending on processing speed and accuracy of your return details.
2. What if my bank account is closed after filing the return?
You’ll need to update a new pre-validated account and reissue the refund request from your dashboard.
3. Can I check my refund status without logging in?
Yes. Visit the TIN-NSDL refund status page and enter your PAN and assessment year.
4. My refund was failed — what should I do?
Check if your bank account is active and PAN-linked, then raise a refund reissue request on the portal.
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