Received an Income Tax Notice? Do These Five Things First
What to do, and what not to do, in the first few days after an income tax notice arrives by email or on the portal.
Published 2026-10-28 · Rohini Tax Consultant
A notice from the tax department causes worry, but most are routine and can be closed with a correct reply. Here is how to handle the first few days.
1. Confirm it is genuine
Log in to your e-filing account and look under pending actions. A real notice appears there with a document number. Do not click links in suspicious emails or messages.
2. Read what is being asked
Is it an intimation of a mismatch, a defective return, a request for information, or a scrutiny notice? Each has a different reply and a different deadline.
3. Note the due date
Missing the date lets the department decide on its own figures. If you need more time, an adjournment can usually be requested online before the date passes.
4. Collect the papers for that year
Keep the filed return, computation, Form 16, AIS, bank statements and proof of the transaction in question together.
5. Do not reply in a hurry
Accepting a demand that is not actually due, or giving an explanation that contradicts your return, creates bigger problems. Have the reply drafted properly.
You can WhatsApp the notice to us. We will explain it in simple words and tell you what reply is needed.
This article gives general information. Limits, rates and due dates change, so please confirm the current position for your case before acting.
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