Income Tax Refunds: If you filed your income tax return on time and are still worried about seeing “Refund Pending,” you’re not alone. Millions of taxpayers across the country are facing the same situation this year. People are checking the portal and their bank accounts daily, wondering when their refund will finally arrive.
This year’s delay in income tax refunds has increased anxiety among everyone from salaried employees to small business owners. Even three months after the extended ITR deadline of September 16, 2025, a large number of refunds remain pending. While the tax department claims that a record number of returns have been processed, the reality on the ground is that millions of people are still waiting for their refunds.
Why are refunds stuck despite record processing?
According to Income Tax Department data, as of November 10, more than 7.57 crore returns have been processed and approximately ₹2.42 lakh crore in refunds have been issued. These figures sound impressive and satisfactory. However, despite this, 1.5 to 2 crore returns still have pending refunds.
These pending cases include many taxpayers whose refunds range from ₹10,000 to ₹5 lakh. This money represents school fees for some, EMIs for others, and essential savings for many. When such a large amount of money is held up for months, anxiety is completely understandable.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Assessment Year | Current Filing Year 2025 |
| Extended ITR Deadline | September 16, 2025 |
| Returns Processed | 7.57 crore |
| Refund Amount Issued | Rs 2.42 lakh crore |
| Pending Refund Cases | 1.5–2 crore |
| Common Refund Range | Rs 10,000 to Rs 5 lakh |
| Refund Status Shown | “Refund Pending” on portal |
| Main Cause of Delay | Verification, data matching, system backlog |
Technical checks and automation are major reasons
This year, the income tax system has emphasized greater automation and data matching. Returns are being matched more rigorously with AIS, TIS, and bank data. Where even a slight discrepancy is found, the return is held up. In many cases, taxpayers are unaware of why their refund is pending.
Additionally, refunds can also be delayed due to bank account verification issues, Aadhaar-PAN linking problems, or outstanding tax demands from previous years. The money is not released until the system is completely satisfied. This is why people are facing delays even after filing their returns correctly.
Impact of the extended deadline
This year, the deadline for filing ITRs was extended to September 16th. This directly impacted the processing timeline. When millions of returns are filed at the last minute, the system gets overloaded. As a result, initial processing is completed, but issuing refunds takes longer. Many tax experts believe that extending the deadline provides relief to the department, but it only prolongs the wait for taxpayers seeking refunds.
Small mistakes, big delays
One common reason for refund delays is minor errors. Incorrect bank account numbers, errors in IFSC codes, or even minor data mismatches in the return can force the system to withhold the refund. Sometimes, taxpayers miss emails or portal notices, further delaying the process. This delay also has a significant psychological impact. People worry that their refund might be stuck or that they might have made a major mistake.
What to expect next
The Income Tax Department is gradually working on clearing the pending cases. It is expected that most of the pending refunds will be processed in the coming months. Those whose refunds are delayed should log in to the portal to check the status and not ignore any notices or verification requests. While it’s difficult to be patient, this delay is not permanent. In most cases, the refund will eventually arrive; it’s just taking longer than usual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 Why is my income tax refund still pending?
Due to verification checks, data mismatches, and heavy processing backlog.
Q.2 How long does income tax refund usually take?
It generally takes two to six weeks after return processing.
Q.3 Did the extended ITR deadline delay refunds?
Yes, bulk filings increased workload and slowed refund releases.
Q.4 Can wrong bank details delay my tax refund?
Yes, incorrect account or IFSC details can stop refunds.
Q.5 What should I do if refund shows pending?
Check notices, verify details, and respond on portal promptly.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and media reports. The process, timelines, and decisions related to income tax refunds are entirely dependent on the rules and official updates of the Income Tax Department. Before taking any financial action or filing a complaint, please verify the information with the official website of the Income Tax Department or an authorized advisor.
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