Several taxpayers have reported receiving emails and SMS alerts from the Income Tax Department stating that their income tax refund has been put on hold
due to mismatches found during return processing. According to screenshots shared by users on social media platforms, the message sent by the tax department reads: “Processing of the said return was held as it was identified under risk management process on account of certain discrepancies in the claim of refund. An email with details has also been sent to your registered email address.” The alert has left many taxpayers confused, prompting them to seek clarification from the Income Tax Department through online platforms. The department has asked affected taxpayers to review their income tax returns and, if required, file a revised ITR for the relevant assessment year within the prescribed deadline. Tax officials have clarified that the alerts are part of a NUDGE campaign, under which advisories are sent to taxpayers identified as having potentially claimed incorrect deductions or exemptions. According to the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), certain taxpayers were found claiming ineligible refunds by availing deductions or exemptions to which they were not entitled. These include claims linked to unrecognised political parties or charitable institutions, resulting in an understatement of income. Taxpayers required to file income tax returns for the financial year 2024–25, corresponding to assessment year 2025–26, must do so on or before December 31, 2025. Taxpayers who have received such alerts are advised to carefully recheck their deduction and exemption claims. If any discrepancies are found, they must revise their returns within the stipulated timeline to avoid further scrutiny or enquiries by the department. The CBDT has clarified that taxpayers whose claims are genuine and correctly made in accordance with the law are not required to take any further action. The Income Tax Department has reiterated that the advisory is aimed at encouraging voluntary compliance and ensuring accurate reporting of income.
