Complete Guide to All Types of ITR Forms in India
Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is a legal responsibility for every taxpayer in India. Depending on your income sources, profession, and entity type, the Income Tax Department offers multiple income tax forms. There are different types of itr and selecting the correct type of ITR is the first step to avoid errors and notices during tax filing.
This article explains each ITR form in detail to help you make an informed choice before you file your income tax return online using the Income Tax Portal or income tax filing sites.
📄 Types of ITR Forms in India
1. ITR 1 (Sahaj)
For salaried individuals or pensioners
Income up to ₹50 lakhs
Income from one house property
Income from other sources like interest
Not for business income or capital gains
This itr form types is meant for salaried individuals or pensioners with total income up to ₹50 lakhs. It consists of one house, salary income, plus extra money from interest and other sources. This form is not available to people who have capital gains, business income, or overseas income.People who have capital gains, company income, or overseas income are not eligible to utilize this form. It’s the simplest and most commonly used ITR for regular taxpayers.
2. ITR 2
For individuals and HUFs
comprises income from capital gains, income from multiple properties, and income from international sources.
No business or professional income
Hindu undivided families (HUFs) and people without a business or other source of income use ITr 2 online filing. Those who have foreign assets, several residential properties, capital gains income (from shares or real estate), or agricultural income above ₹5,000 are eligible.
3. ITR 3
For people or HUFs who make money from their jobs or businesses
Includes salary, capital gains, house property, etc.
Suitable for freelancers, consultants, and proprietors
Individuals and HUFs who earn money from their businesses or professions should fill itr. ITR 3 Filing is also suitable for those with income from commissions, freelancing, or as partners in firms. Along with business income, it includes salary, house property, and capital gains.
4. ITR 4 (Sugam)
For presumptive taxation scheme under Sections 44AD, 44ADA, 44AE
Turnover of up to ₹50 lakh for professionals and ₹2 crore for businesses
For small business owners and professionals
Not for businesses or people that earn money abroad
Individuals, HUFs, and businesses (except from LLPs) that choose to use the presumptive taxation plan under Sections 44AD, 44ADA, or 44AE must do ITR 4 filing. It is used when the annual turnover is up to ₹2 crore for businesses or ₹50 lakh for professionals. It’s ideal for small business owners and self-employed individuals using simplified tax calculation.
5. ITR 5
AOPs, BOIs, LLPs, businesses, and the estate of someone who passed away
Not applicable for individuals or HUFs
Bodies of Individuals (BOIs), Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs), Associations of Persons (AOPs), businesses, and the assets of the person who died or insolvent are all covered by this form.
6. ITR 6
For businesses (except from those asserting an exemption under Section 11)
Mandatory e-filing with digital signature
Companies that do not seek an exemption under Section 11 (charitable or religious reasons) are subject to ITR Form 6 filing. It is necessary to electronically file income tax returns with a digital signature. LLPs and individual taxpayers are exempt from it.
7. ITR 7
For organizations such as political parties, charity trusts, and educational institutions
Filed under Sections 139(4A), 139(4B), 139(4C), 139(4D)
Sections 139(4A), 139(4B), 139(4C), or 139(4D) must be followed when filing returns for businesses using ITR 7. These include charitable trusts, political parties, universities, research institutions, and other institutions eligible for income tax exemption.
Which ITR Form is Best for You?
✅ Salaried Employees:
If you don't have any capital gains or more than one property and your income is less than ₹50 lakhs, use ITR-1.
Use ITR-2 if you have capital gains, foreign assets, or income over ₹50 lakhs.
✅ Freelancers & Professionals:
Use ITR-4 if your gross receipts are under ₹50 lakhs and you opt for presumptive taxation.
If your income comes from a regular company or profession and is not covered by the presumed system, use ITR-3.
✅ Small Businesses:
If you are eligible for 44AD assumed taxation, your ITR-4 suffices.
Otherwise, go for ITR-3.
✅ NRIs:
primarily fall under ITR-2, particularly if they have capital gains or worldwide assets.
💡 How to File an Income Tax Return Online?
Here’s how you can file your income tax return online via the Income Tax e-Filing Portal:
Go to the official Income Tax Portal and income tax return login
To log in, enter your password and income tax login ID (PAN).
Choose from ITR-1 and ITR-7, the appropriate tax return form
Provide correct information about your income, deductions, and taxes paid on your ITR.
E-file the return and verify via OTP, Aadhaar, or bank account. Download acknowledgment from income tax e filing portal
If you're not confident, look for income tax filing near me or consult experts on trusted income tax filing sites.
📅 ITR Filing Timeline
In general, individuals have until July 31st to file their ITRs because income tax return last date Is the last day of July
1. The deadline for companies that need an audit has been extended until October 31.
2. Missing the deadline can result in penalties, so always file your tax return form on time.
✅ Final Words
To guarantee an easy income tax filing process, selecting the appropriate types of ITR returns is essential. Whether you’re salaried, self-employed, a company, or a charitable trust, there's a specific form designed to match your income profile. With advancements in online tax return filing and e-filing of income tax, it's now easier than ever to file ITR online securely and accurately.
🗂 Common FAQs
Q1: Which Indian website is the best for submitting income taxes?
A: The official Income Tax Website is the most reliable. On the other hand, a lot of private platforms offer effective ITR e-filing solutions.
Q2: Can I file ITR without a CA?
A: Yes, you can easily file your income tax online if your case is simple, especially for salaried individuals.
Q3: What documents are required to file return?
A: PAN, Aadhaar, Form 16, bank details, investment proofs, TDS certificates, etc.
Q4: If I miss the deadline, what will happen?
A: You can still file a belated ITR, but it may attract penalties and interest.