Fix Delayed Refunds After ITR Processing: Here’s How

If your Income Tax Return (ITR) status indicates ‘Processed’ but your refund is missing, there are many possible explanations. Delays in issuing refunds can occur even after processing is completed. Understanding the reasons behind these delays is essential to address them effectively.
Reasons for Delayed Refunds After ITR Processing
- Incorrect bank details or IFSC code.
- Errors in TDS or tax credits.
- Refunds may require 15 to 30 days for crediting to your bank account.
- Inaccuracies in your Form 26AS details.
Steps to Resolve Delayed Refunds
To address issues with delayed refunds, follow these steps:
- Log in to the Income Tax e-filing website.
- Navigate to the Refund/Demand Status section.
- If the refund shows processed, confirm your bank account number and IFSC code.
- If your details are accurate but the refund is still pending, submit a Refund Reissue Request.
Once your request is submitted, the refund will be reissued to you.
Contacting NSDL for Assistance
If your Refund File Dispatch (RFD) code appears on the portal but the amount hasn’t been credited, you can reach out to NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited) or your bank’s branch for support. Sometimes, technical issues can delay transactions.
Understanding ITR Processing Timelines
Typically, refunds should reach your bank account within 15 to 30 days post-processing. Taxpayers receiving income from salaries, bank interests, or similar sources, who do not require audits, often experience quicker processing times.
It’s important to file your returns accurately. This year, taxpayers had a deadline to file their ITR by September 16, 2025, after extensions from July 31 to September 15, followed by one additional day. For audit cases, the deadline remains October 31, 2025.
This proactive approach to managing delayed refunds ensures that you can take corrective steps quickly. Stay informed to avoid future inconveniences in your tax process.