Received an Income Tax Notice?
Don't panic — here's what to do first.
A step-by-step guide from CA Sonali Verma, Chartered Accountant. Read this in 3 minutes — and respond the right way.
Important: Most Income Tax notices have a 15–30 day response window. Ignoring or replying late can lead to penalties, demand orders, and even prosecution under Section 276CC.
What to do — in order
Follow these steps before doing anything else. Skipping even one can cost you.
1. Stay calm — read the notice carefully
A notice is NOT a penalty. Most are routine intimations or requests for clarification. Note the section, assessment year, DIN (Document Identification Number) and response deadline.
2. Verify it is genuine
Check the notice on incometax.gov.in → 'Authenticate Notice/Order Issued by ITD' using the DIN. Fake notices via WhatsApp/email are common — never click suspicious links.
3. Identify the section & reason
Section 143(1) = intimation after processing. 139(9) = defective return. 142(1) = inquiry before assessment. 148 = income escaping assessment. Each needs a different response.
4. Note the deadline — DO NOT ignore
Most notices give 15–30 days to respond. Missing the deadline can lead to best-judgment assessment, penalties up to ₹10,000, and prosecution in serious cases.
5. Gather your documents
Form 16/16A, bank statements, investment proofs, Form 26AS, AIS/TIS, capital gains statements — whatever relates to the year mentioned in the notice.
6. Consult a Chartered Accountant
Don't draft a reply alone. A wrong reply can convert a simple notice into scrutiny. A CA prepares the response, files it on the portal, and represents you if needed.
Common Income Tax notice types
Intimation after processing
Defective return notice
Inquiry before assessment
Scrutiny assessment notice
Income escaping assessment
Adjustment of refund against demand
Not sure which one you received? Send us a photo on WhatsApp — we'll tell you in minutes.
Same-day notice review. Reply drafted by a CA.
CA Sonali Verma and team have handled hundreds of Income Tax notices for individuals, professionals and businesses across India.
- Free first-look review of your notice
- Reply drafted & filed on the IT portal by a qualified CA
- Representation before the Assessing Officer if required
- Transparent fees — quoted upfront, no surprises
- Confidentiality guaranteed
Talk to CA Sonali Verma today
Don't let a notice become a bigger problem.
Every day you wait, your options shrink. Reach out now — most queries are answered the same day.
Sonali & Associates · Chartered Accountant (ICAI Member) · Sai Bhawan-164, Kanjari Sarai, Near Biharo Ka Mandir, Moradabad-244001, Uttar Pradesh, India