Many people ignore their old income tax return (ITR) files once they submit them yearly. But in many situations, old ITR copies become very important. Whether you are applying for a bank loan, planning to travel abroad, filing a visa application, or applying under a government scheme, your ITR can be your most significant financial proof.
Also, in some cases, the Income Tax Department may send a notice asking for details from past years. If you have claimed a refund and haven’t received it, you should show your ITR copy again. So, keeping your old ITR safe can save you from future trouble.
But if you forgot to save a copy earlier, don’t worry. You can easily download it online through the Income Tax portal. The process is simple and can be done using your phone or laptop.
When Do You Need Old ITR Copies?
Old ITR copies work as your financial records. Below are everyday situations when you may need them:
- Loan Application: Banks usually ask for the last 2–3 years’ ITR to check your income history.
- Visa Application: Many countries ask for proof of income through ITR when you apply for a visa.
- Government Schemes: If you apply for a subsidy, grant, or scheme, departments ask for ITR to check your eligibility.
- Income Tax Notice: If the IT Department sends any query or notice, they may ask for past ITRs.
- Refund Claims: If you paid extra tax and didn’t receive a refund, your ITR copy becomes proof of claim.
ITR is not just a tax paper; it’s your income identity. It proves your earnings and tax payments to different authorities.
What You Need Before Downloading the Old ITR Copy
To download your past ITR copy online, keep the following ready:
- PAN Number
- Password for Income Tax Portal
- Mobile Number (for OTP verification)
- Internet connection
- Laptop or smartphone
You do not need any physical documents or bank visits. Everything happens online.
Step-by-Step Guide to Download Old ITR from Income Tax Portal
✅ Step 1: Visit the Income Tax Website
Go to the official portal: www.incometax.gov.in
✅ Step 2: Log in with PAN and Password
Use your PAN as a user ID. Enter your password. You’ll also receive an OTP on your registered mobile for verification.
✅ Step 3: Go to the ‘E-File’ Section
After logging, click the ‘E-File’ option on the top menu.
✅ Step 4: Click on ‘Income Tax Returns’
Now select ‘Income Tax Returns’ → ‘View Filed Returns’.
✅ Step 5: Choose the Year You Need
You will now see a list of all your filed returns for different Assessment Years (AY).
For example, if you filed a return for FY 2023–24, its Assessment Year will be AY 2024–25.
✅ Step 6: Click ‘Download ITR-V’ or ‘View Details’
Next to each return, you can download ITR-V (Acknowledgement) or View Details. Choose accordingly.
✅ Step 7: Save the PDF File
Once downloaded, save the PDF copy on your device. You can also take a printout if needed.
How to Open the ITR PDF File
The downloaded ITR-V file is password-protected. Use the following format to open it:
Password = PAN (in capital letters) + Date of Birth (ddmmyyyy)
Example:
- PAN = ABCDE1234F
- DOB = 15 March 1990
- Password = ABCDE1234F15031990
Make sure there are no spaces in between.
What If You Forget the Portal Password?
Don’t panic. If you forgot your Income Tax Portal password:
- Go to the login page
- Click on ‘Forgot Password’
- Choose password reset through OTP or security question
- Set a new password and log in again
Always use a strong but memorable password to avoid future issues.
Download ITR Copies Using the Mobile App Also
You can use your phone if you don’t have access to a computer.
- Download the ‘Income Tax’ mobile app (available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store)
- Log in with PAN and OTP
- Go to the ‘Returns’ section and follow the same steps to download the ITR copy
This is especially useful for people who prefer mobile devices over laptops.
If You Filed an ITR Through CA or a Tax Expert
In case a Chartered Accountant (CA) filed your ITR, and you don’t have the copy:
- You can ask your CA for the ITR file
- Request for ITR-V, XML or JSON file and complete return report
- However, downloading from the portal directly is always safer and faster
Even if your CA handles your returns, you should have a copy for your records.
ITR: More Than Just a Tax Document
Most people think ITR is only required during tax filing season. But in real life, it plays a much bigger role. It’s needed in various financial tasks:
- Buying a house or applying for a home loan
- Taking a car loan or a personal loan
- Applying for higher studies abroad
- Getting financial aid or a subsidy
- Filing a response to an IT notice or refund delay
So, always download your ITR file after filing and save it in digital and printed format. This small step helps smooth processing when any financial document is needed later.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general awareness. Please refer to the official Income Tax portal or consult a tax professional for personal advice.
Sources: Income Tax Department, Economic Times, Live Mint, India Today Business
