Should you file tax return even without taxable income?

Posted by Shreekant Rao on January 6th, 2017

With the last date for filing income tax returns (ITR) fast approaching, most tax payers are probably in the midst of doing so. But, what if your income is below the taxable limit of Rs 2.5 lakh per annum? Should you still file returns? You should, under a few circumstances. Some of these are mandatory, while some are advisable as there are benefits of filing.

The biggest benefit is that it helps when you apply for a loan in future or when you apply for a visa, say tax experts. For any home loan, vehicle loan, car loan, etc, most lenders ask for proof of tax returns of the previous three years. So, if you have just entered the work force and at Rs 20,000 a month, your annual salary is below the taxable limit of Rs 2.5 lakh, you are not required to file returns. But, it is useful to do so because you can build proof of your finances. Even if you are applying for a loan as a co-borrower, the return will serve as proof of your income. Similarly, if you are planning to travel abroad, tax returns are required while applying for a Visa.

ALSO READ: What happens if you delay filing tax returns?

A reason why you have to mandatorily file returns is to claim tax refund or set off losses. while taking Home Loan Without Income Proof For instance, if you have suffered losses from stock market transactions and you want to carry it forward to the next year, you must file for a refund, even if your annual income is below the

Or it could happen that despite your income being below the taxable limit, your employer has cut TDS (tax deducted at source). Or you earned some money through freelance work and the company deducted TDS at 10 per cent. But since your income is lower than the taxable limit, you are entitled for a refund. For claiming this refund, you have to file a return.

[Source: http://www.business-standard.com/article/pf/should-you-file-tax-return-even-without-taxable-income-115081900228_1.html]