The deadline for filing income tax returns (ITR) is fast approaching. To save on taxes, many individuals follow the correct procedures and submit the necessary documents with their ITR forms. However, some opt for fraudulent methods, such as submitting fake rent receipts or other fabricated documents, believing that the Income Tax Department will not detect their deceit. This assumption is entirely incorrect. The Income Tax Department has robust systems in place to catch any discrepancies in the filed ITR. Upon detection, the department promptly notifies the taxpayer via email and may impose hefty fines for significant fraud.

Last Date for Filing ITR is 31 July 2024

The Income Tax Department has set 31 July 2024 as the last date for filing ITR. Beyond this date, taxpayers who file their ITR will incur a daily late fine. After filing, taxpayers have a 30-day window to verify their ITR. This verification period starts from the date of ITR filing, and failing to verify within 30 days also attracts penalties.

Income Tax Department’s Vigilance on ITR Fraud

The Income Tax Department has implemented stringent measures to crack down on ITR fraud. If a taxpayer submits fake documents, the department can quickly identify these through advanced detection systems. Recently, the department uncovered several such frauds, particularly focusing on fake rent receipts. The department has fully prepared to deal with these fraudulent activities.

Rules for Submitting Rent Receipts in ITR

Rent receipts are submitted in ITR to claim House Rent Allowance (HRA). According to Income Tax rules, taxpayers can claim HRA only if their employer provides it. If a taxpayer pays more than Rs 1 lakh in rent annually, they must also submit the landlord’s PAN number. Many taxpayers try to exploit this provision by submitting fake rent receipts. The Annual Information Statement (AIS) records all PAN-related transactions. If there is a discrepancy between the taxpayer’s claim and the AIS details, the Income Tax Department issues a notice immediately.

Detection of Fake Rent Receipts in ITR Documents

Like many other departments, the Income Tax Department leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) to detect irregularities. AI helps the department identify fake rent receipts by cross-referencing Form-16 with AIS Form and Form-26AS. Any inconsistency between these forms’ details triggers a warning notice to the taxpayer via email.

The use of AI in detecting fraud ensures that the Income Tax Department maintains a high level of accuracy and efficiency in its operations. Therefore, it is advisable for taxpayers to follow the correct procedures and avoid submitting fake documents, as the repercussions of getting caught can be severe, including financial penalties and legal consequences.

As the last date for filing income tax returns draws near, it is crucial for taxpayers to be aware of the correct and legal methods of tax saving. Submitting fake documents may seem like an easy way out, but the Income Tax Department’s advanced detection mechanisms make it highly likely that such fraud will be discovered. To avoid penalties and legal trouble, ensure that all documents and claims in your ITR are genuine and accurate.

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