How to File TDS Return: Step-by-Step Process of TDS Filing
- Author :
- TATA AIG Team
- ●
- Last Updated On :
- 12/02/2024
Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) was introduced by the Indian government through the Income Tax Act of 1922. Its main purpose is to collect tax at the very source of income and to mitigate tax evasion.
The process usually goes as follows: The person making the payment deducts a percentage of tax from the payment amount. This amount is remitted to the central government. The receiver can then claim the deducted TDS amount as a tax refund (if applicable) when filing their ITR.
A very common example where you can see TDS being deducted is on salary payments.
All employers and organisations with a valid Tax Collection and Deduction Number (TAN) that make specified payments mentioned under the Income Tax Act must file a TDS Return every quarter.
Not doing so within the due date can result in fines ranging between ₹10,000 to ₹1 lakh.
This blog discusses how to file A TDS return and everything else you need to know about the TDS filing process. We also state the TDS due dates, so read on to find out more!
TDS Return Filing Process a Step-By-Step Explanation
How To Fill TDS Online
-You can visit the NDSL portal and download the TDS/TCS Return Preparation Utility (RPU) for online TDS return filings. You must also have a JRE environment downloaded and installed to run this application.
Once downloaded, extract the zip file and open the application. It is the TDS_RPU.bat file that can be found in the extracted zip file.
From the drop-down menu, select the applicable form number and click on the statement type. Regular in this case. Click Continue.
Fill out all the details on the form and repeat this process for the next tabs as well. For example, deductee details in the Annexure Tab, challan details on the challan tab and so on.
Next, download the Challan input file by clicking on TAN based view. Enter your required information and click Download Challan file. It will be a (.csv) file.
Click ‘Create File’, add the .csv file and click ‘Validate’. It will generate and store an ‘FUV File’ in your system.
Next, log in to the E-Filing website using your TAN number.
Under the E-file tab, click Income Tax Forms and then select File Income Tax Forms.
Click ‘Deduction of Tax at source’. You can find it at the bottom of the page.
Select the Form number and other details. Attach the ‘FUV file’ that you previously generated.
Click ‘Proceed to e-verify’ and select a verification option to submit your TDS return.
You will receive an acknowledgement receipt upon successful submission. If it has been rejected, you will get a non-acceptance memo.
Useful Links:
Tutorial on Using the RPU Application
TDS/TCS Return Preparation Utility (RPU) Download Link
Challan Input File
Returns and Forms Applicable for Domestic Companies
E-Filing Portal
TDS Forms
Offline Process
Visit the NDSL portal.
Click on Form 27A and fill it in. This form is used to file returns with quarterly statements. It summarises the quarterly statements and contains the amount paid and the TDS.
Carefully fill in all the sections and ensure you enter the correct TAN number for accurate verification.
You must also enter the 7-digit Bank Branch Code (BSR) for tallying purposes.
Once you have filled in the form, you must take it to the nearest NSDL facilitation centre to have it verified and processed.
Documents Required for the TDS Return Filing Procedure
The applicable TDS return form.
Deductee and the deductor PAN cards.
Tax amount paid to the Indian government.
TDS challan details
Other paperwork, if needed
Forms Used for TDS Return Filing
| Form No. | Transaction Type |
|---|---|
| Form 24Q | TDS on Salary |
| Form 26Q | TDS on payments other than salary (for resident deductees) |
| Form 27Q | TDS on payments other than salary (for non-resident deductees) |
| Form 27 | Quarterly statement of tax deduction from interest, dividends or other sums payable to certain individuals |
| Form 27EQ | Tax Collected at Source |
| Form 26QB | TDS on the sale of a property |
| Form 26QC | TDS on rent |
Eligibility Criteria for the TDS Return Process
As stated, all employers and organisations with a valid TAN must file TDS returns every quarter. Moreover, individuals whose accounts are audited under Section 44AB under the IT Act must also undergo the TDS return process every quarter.
As per the IT Act, the specified payments that must have TDS filed include:
Salary payment.
Rent payment.
Insurance commission.
Pay-outs towards NSC.
Income on securities (investments).
Sale/purchase of an immovable property. E.g. a house or other real estate.
Income generated on winning a lottery, horse race, etc.
You should note here that the TDS returns for insurance commission refers to the remuneration or reward paid to the agent or broker for selling the insurance policy. You do not have to file TDS returns when paying your life insurance or health insurance premiums.
Due dates for TDS Return Filing
| Quarter | TDS return filing period | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 1st April to 30th June | 31st July |
| Q2 | 1st July to 30th September | 31st October |
| Q3 | 1st October to 31st December | 31st January |
| Q4 | 1st January to 31st March | 31st May |
Conclusion
The TDS return process can be done online through the NDSL portal using their TDS/TCS Return Preparation Utility (RPU) application, or it can be done in person by visiting your nearest NSDL facilitation centre.
We recommend doing this process online as it saves a lot of time and drastically cuts down on the paperwork involved.
Tax Benefits with Health Insurance
As a deductee when filing your tax returns, always remember to claim your tax deductions under Section 80D if you have a medical insurance plan. You can get a deduction of up to ₹25,000, which increases to ₹50,000 for a senior citizen health insurance plan, reducing your taxable income.
So, if you do not already have one, consider getting one from Tata AIG. We offer seamless purchase, renewal and claim services online, so you have a hassle-free experience when filing claims and buying health insurance policies.
Disclaimer / TnC
Your policy is subjected to terms and conditions & inclusions and exclusions mentioned in your policy wording. Please go through the documents carefully.
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