Understanding the Importance of Form 26AS for ITR Filing in FY 2025-26 and How to Download It Online

ITR filing for the financial year 2025-26 is approaching, with the deadline set for July 31, 2026. For salaried taxpayers, Form 26AS has become a crucial document in the income tax return (ITR) filing process. It is essential to gather all necessary documents and verify information to prevent errors and mismatches before e-filing on the income tax website.

Understanding Form 26AS

Form 26AS provides taxpayers with a consolidated view of tax-related information linked to their Permanent Account Number (PAN). According to Parizad Sirwalla, Partner and Head – Global Mobility Services, Tax, KPMG in India, this form is vital for reviewing tax credits and reconciling tax information with the Income Tax Department prior to filing an ITR.

The statement includes details of Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) from employers, banks, and other deductors, as well as Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on specific transactions like foreign remittances. Sirwalla emphasizes that while Form 26AS is important, taxpayers should also consult the Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS) for a broader view of their financial transactions and income-related data.

How to Download Form 26AS

Taxpayers can access Form 26AS via the Income Tax e-Filing portal at https://www.incometax.gov.in. After logging in, users should navigate to e-File → Income Tax Returns → View Form 26AS. The portal redirects to the TRACES platform, where the statement can be viewed online or downloaded in PDF or text format.

Additionally, Form 26AS is accessible through the net banking services of select authorized banks. Sirwalla advises taxpayers to review Form 26AS thoroughly and reconcile it with AIS, TIS, and other tax records before filing their income tax returns to avoid errors and ensure smooth processing.

Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.

Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn