Salaried employees, professionals and business owners in Chennai must file an income tax return each year if their income crosses the basic exemption limit or they meet other filing conditions.

This guide explains ITR filing for Chennai taxpayers — which form to use, the documents to keep, and how to e-file and verify.

What is Income Tax Return (ITR) Filing in Chennai?

An income tax return is filed online on the Income Tax e-filing portal. Residents of Chennai file the same central return as taxpayers elsewhere — there is no city-specific form.

The correct ITR form depends on your sources of income: salary, house property, capital gains, business or profession.

Who should file an ITR in Chennai

  • Salaried individuals with income above the basic exemption limit
  • Freelancers and professionals in Chennai
  • Business owners and traders
  • Anyone with capital gains, foreign income/assets, or wanting a refund of TDS

Documents required

  • PAN and Aadhaar (linked)
  • Form 16 from the employer (for salaried)
  • Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement (AIS)
  • Bank interest and capital gains statements
  • Proofs for deductions (80C, 80D, etc.) if using the old regime

Step-by-step process

  1. Collect documents. Gather Form 16, 26AS/AIS, and investment proofs.
  2. Pick the regime and form. Compare the new and old regimes and select the correct ITR form.
  3. File online. Log in to the Income Tax portal, enter income and deductions, and pay any balance tax.
  4. E-verify. Verify the return within the prescribed period via Aadhaar OTP, net banking or other modes.

More for Chennai and Tamil Nadu

Find related services in Chennai, the statewide guide for Tamil Nadu, and national how-to guides.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a CA to file ITR in Chennai?

Not necessarily. Simple salaried returns can be self-filed; complex cases (capital gains, business, notices) benefit from professional help.

What is the ITR due date?

For most individuals it is 31 July of the assessment year, unless extended. Audit cases have later dates.