Every year, millions of taxpayers eagerly wait for their income tax refunds. But many are left frustrated when the amount doesn’t show up in their bank account, or when the status still reads “under processing.” If you’re in the same boat, you’re not alone. Refund delays are common, and the reasons can vary from small technical issues to pending verifications.

Why is My ITR Refund Delayed?

Here are some common reasons your refund might not have arrived yet:

• Unvalidated bank account: It is mandatory to pre-validate your bank account before receiving any refund.
• Mismatch of bank and PAN details: If your name in the bank account doesn’t match your PAN details, your refund could get stuck.
• Invalid IFSC code: A wrong or outdated IFSC code will block the transfer.
• Closed bank account: If you mentioned an account that is no longer active, the refund won’t be processed.
• PAN not linked to Aadhaar: An inoperative PAN will stop the refund process entirely.
• ITR not verified: Your return is treated as invalid if not verified within 30 days of filing.

When Can I Expect My Refund?

According to tax experts, once you e-verify your ITR, the Income Tax Department usually credits refunds within 2 to 5 weeks.

• Simple returns: Processed faster.
• Large refunds or mismatches: May take longer as they go through additional checks.

How to Track Your Refund Status

Follow these steps to check the status of your refund:

1. Visit www.incometax.gov.in and log in using your PAN and password.
2. Ensure your PAN is linked with Aadhaar. If not, use the “Link Now” option.
3. From the top menu, select Services > Know your Refund Status.
4. Go to the e-File tab > Income Tax Returns > View Filed Returns.
5. The refund status for the selected year will appear on your screen.

FAQs About ITR Refunds

Q1. What if my refund is more than ₹50,000?
There’s no maximum limit. However, larger refunds often face extra checks, which could delay crediting.

Q2. How can I claim a TDS refund?
You can claim it only by filing and e-verifying your ITR for that year. Always cross-check Form 26AS before filing.

Q3. Is there a maximum refund amount?
No. You’ll get back all excess tax paid, whether through TDS, advance tax, or self-assessment. If delayed, the IT department pays 0.5% monthly interest on the amount.

Make sure your PAN is linked with Aadhaar, your bank details are correct, and your ITR is verified on time. Most refunds come through within a month, but if yours is taking longer, tracking it online is the best way to know what’s happening.