Income Tax Notice? Here's Your 10-Step Guide to Respond Effectively

• Verify the notice's authenticity using its Unique Document Identification Number (DIN) on the e-filing portal; notices without a DIN are legally invalid.
• Identify the specific section under which the notice is issued (e.g., 143(1), 139(9), 148) to understand its implications and reply deadlines.
• Adhere strictly to the response deadline (typically 15-30 days) to avoid ex-parte assessments and potential penalties.
• Analyze discrepancies by comparing notice details with your Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS).
• Gather digital supporting evidence like salary slips, Form 16, and bank statements, and submit responses via the e-proceedings tab on the e-filing portal, e-verifying the submission for completion.

Why It Matters: Responding to an income tax notice requires prompt verification, understanding the issue, and submitting digital evidence.