The Income Tax Return (ITR) filing season for 2026 has begun, and most taxpayers share a common goal—getting the maximum possible refund. However, experts say your refund doesn’t depend only on last-minute tax-saving investments. It mainly depends on accurate filing, correct tax regime selection, and proper reporting of income and deductions.

When your total tax paid (TDS or advance tax) is higher than your actual tax liability, the Income Tax Department refunds the excess amount. But even small filing errors can delay this process or reduce your refund.

Choose the right tax regime first

One of the most important decisions while filing ITR is selecting between the old and new tax regimes.

It’s not a one-size-fits-all choice. You need to calculate which regime results in lower tax liability based on your income and investments. In many cases, selecting the right regime itself can significantly increase your refund.

Use deductions wisely under the old regime

If the old tax regime is more beneficial for you, make sure you fully use available deductions:

• Under Section 80C, you can claim up to ₹1.5 lakh through investments like PPF, EPF, ELSS, life insurance premiums, and tax-saving FDs.
• Under Section 80D, you can claim ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 for health insurance premiums.
• Salaried taxpayers can also claim HRA benefits if eligible.
• Under Section 24(b), home loan interest allows deductions up to ₹2 lakh.

Proper use of these deductions directly reduces taxable income and increases refund chances.

NPS can give you an extra ₹50,000 benefit

If you have already exhausted your 80C limit, investing in the National Pension System (NPS) can help.

Under Section 80CCD(1B), you can claim an additional deduction of up to ₹50,000. Employer contributions may also qualify for extra tax benefits under Section 80CCD(2), depending on the regime.

Don’t ignore standard deductions and rebates

Salaried taxpayers automatically get a standard deduction:

• ₹50,000 (old regime)
• ₹75,000 (new regime)

Additionally, Section 87A rebate can reduce tax liability to zero for eligible income levels, significantly increasing refund potential.

Filing accuracy is key to faster refund

Even if your tax planning is perfect, refunds can get delayed due to filing mistakes. Keep these points in mind:

• Choose the correct ITR form
• Match TDS with Form 16/16A
• Enter correct bank account details
• Complete e-verification immediately after filing

Without e-verification, your return will not be processed.