What to Do If You Receive a Tax Notice from the Income Tax Department
- Aditya Gupta
- Apr 11
- 3 min read
Worried about an income tax notice? Don’t stress. Here’s a simple, practical guide from Complyhub that breaks down what the notice means and how to respond the right way.
Getting a notice from the Income Tax Department can catch you off guard—but don’t worry, you’re not alone. With stricter compliance systems and everything becoming more digitized, such notices are more common than ever.
Whether it’s a mismatch in your ITR, high-value transactions, or a detailed scrutiny call, knowing what to do next is crucial. At Complyhub, we’ve helped hundreds of individuals and businesses navigate tax notices smoothly—and we’re here to help you do the same.
🧾 What Exactly is an Income Tax Notice?
Think of it as a formal heads-up from the Income Tax Department. It usually points to something in your return that needs clarification or correction—maybe a discrepancy, a missing document, or an issue with your income declaration.
⚠️ Why Did You Receive a Tax Notice?
Here are some common triggers:
Differences between your income and TDS details
Late or missed ITR filing
Large purchases or transactions (real estate, travel, credit cards)
Selection for scrutiny (Section 143(2))
Errors in filing (Section 139(9))
Undisclosed income or investments
Not reporting foreign assets or income
People often search online for:“how to respond to an income tax notice” or “income tax scrutiny under 143(2)” — we’re here to decode it for you.
📂 Types of Tax Notices & What You Should Do
📃 Section 139(9): Defective ReturnYour return might be missing some info or incorrectly filed.👉 Fix the issues and refile it—usually within 15 days.
📃 Section 143(1): Intimation NoticeThis isn’t a red flag. It’s a comparison between your return and their calculations.👉 Review carefully. If there’s an error, submit a rectification online.
📃 Section 143(2): Scrutiny NoticeYou’ve been picked for a detailed review.👉 Provide documentation and evidence supporting your return. Need help? Complyhub can assist.
📃 Section 148: Escaped Income AssessmentThey believe you’ve left out some income.👉 You’ll need to submit a fresh return and explain the discrepancy.
📃 Section 245: Refund AdjustmentThey’re planning to adjust your refund against old dues.👉 You can agree or file an objection within 30 days.
📃 Non-Filing Notice via Compliance PortalYou may have made big transactions without filing a return.👉 Log in to the portal, give your reason, or file the return if needed.
🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Handle a Tax Notice
✅ Step 1: Read the Notice Carefully
Identify the section
Understand the reason (mismatch, missed return, etc.)
Note the due date for response
✅ Step 2: Reconcile with Your Records
Match details from Form 26AS and AIS
Compare with your ITR entries (TDS, investments, etc.)
✅ Step 3: Respond On Time
Use the e-filing portal
Go to the relevant section (e-Proceedings or Compliance)
Submit your response or revised return
✅ Step 4: Attach Proof
Salary slips, Form 16, investment proofs
Bank statements, capital gains summaries
TDS certificates
✅ Step 5: Get Expert HelpSome notices are easy to handle, but others can get technical fast. Instead of risking a penalty or audit, let Complyhub handle it for you—correctly and legally.
⚖️ Penalties for Ignoring a Tax Notice
If you ignore the notice or delay your response, here’s what you could face:
Fines ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000
Additional interest charges (Section 234A/B/C)
Possible scrutiny, reassessment—or even legal action
🧩 How Complyhub Can Help You
We analyze the notice and explain what it means
Prepare and file your official response
Rectify any mistakes in your return
Handle documentation, timelines, and representation
Save you from unnecessary stress, penalties, or rejections
📣 Final Words
Receiving a tax notice doesn’t mean you’ve done something wrong—it just means the department needs more clarity. What matters most is how you respond.
At Complyhub, we simplify the entire process so you can stop worrying and focus on your work. We’ll handle everything—from the first response to the last document.
📞 Need help with a tax notice?We’re just a message away.
Comentarios