Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is easier when you prepare all the needed documents in advance. Whether you work for a salary, own a business, or invest, having everything in order helps prevent mistakes, notices, and last-minute stress.

Here’s a complete guide to the documents you need for filing your Income Tax Return in India.

Basic Documents Required for Everyone

These are mandatory for almost all taxpayers:

1. PAN Card

Your Permanent Account Number (PAN) is crucial for filing ITR. It serves as your unique tax ID.

2. Aadhaar Card

Aadhaar is necessary for ITR filing and must be linked to your PAN.

3. Bank Account Details

Prepare the following:

– Bank account number
– IFSC code
– Pre-validated bank account for refund credit

4. Form 16 (For Salaried Individuals)

Your employer issues Form 16, which includes:

– Salary details
– TDS deducted
– Breakdown of taxable income

5. Salary Slips

Monthly salary slips help confirm income components like:

– Basic salary
– HRA
– Allowances
– Deductions

6. Form 26AS

Form 26AS shows:

– TDS deducted
– Advance tax paid
– Self-assessment tax
– High-value transactions

7. Annual Information Statement (AIS)

AIS provides a detailed view of:

– Income from salary
– Interest income
– Dividend income
– Securities transactions

8. Tax Information Summary (TIS)

TIS is a summary of AIS that shows calculated income values for filing.

Income-wise Supporting Documents

Different income types require additional documents.

For Business Owners / Professionals

If you run a business or work as a freelancer or professional, keep:

– Profit & Loss Account
– Balance Sheet
– Expense bills and invoices
– GST details (if applicable)

These documents help accurately calculate your net profit and tax obligations.

For Capital Gains

If you sold property, shares, or mutual funds, keep:

– Sale deed and purchase deed (for property)
– Contract notes (for shares and mutual funds)
– Capital gains statement from your broker

These are necessary for calculating short-term or long-term capital gains.

For House Property Income

If you own property, keep:

– Home loan interest certificate from your bank
– Rental income details (if rented)
– Municipal tax payment receipts

Deduction & Exemption Proofs

To claim deductions under sections of the Income Tax Act, gather the following proofs:

– LIC premium receipts
– ELSS investment proof
– PPF contribution receipt
– Health insurance premium receipt (Section 80D)
– Education loan interest certificate (Section 80E)
– Donation receipts (Section 80G)

These documents help legally reduce your taxable income.

Other Documents (If Applicable)

– Foreign income and asset details (if you have income from abroad)
– Previous year ITR copy (useful for reference and loan applications)

Final Tip

Before filing your Income Tax Return, double-check all income details against AIS and Form 26AS. Carefully verify your bank details and keep scanned copies of all documents. Proper documentation ensures smooth filing, faster refunds, and fewer chances of receiving notices from the Income Tax Department.