Which ITR Form Should You File for AY 2026-27?
Picking the wrong ITR form is a common reason returns get marked defective. Here is a simple guide to which form fits your income this year, including a helpful change to ITR-1.
Choosing the right ITR form matters, file the wrong one and your return can be treated as defective under Section 139(9). The correct form depends on the nature and amount of your income. Here is the plain-language version for AY 2026-27.
ITR-1 (Sahaj), for most salaried people
ITR-1 is for resident individuals with total income up to ₹50 lakh from salary or pension, one or two house properties, and other sources like interest. A useful change this year: ITR-1 now covers income from up to two house properties, so many people who previously had to use ITR-2 can stay on this simpler form. It also allows long-term capital gains under Section 112A up to ₹1.25 lakh within limits.
ITR-2, for capital gains and higher income
Use ITR-2 if you have capital gains beyond what ITR-1 allows, income above ₹50 lakh, more than two house properties, foreign income or assets, or you are a non-resident. It covers everything ITR-1 does not, short of business income.
ITR-3, for business and professional income
ITR-3 is for individuals and HUFs with income from a business or profession, including those carrying on a proprietary business or working as professionals who maintain regular books. If you have both a business and capital gains, this is usually your form.
ITR-4 (Sugam), for presumptive income
ITR-4 is for residents with presumptive business or professional income under Sections 44AD, 44ADA or 44AE, with total income up to ₹50 lakh. It suits many freelancers, small businesses and professionals who opt for the presumptive scheme rather than maintaining detailed books. Note that non-audit ITR-3 and ITR-4 filers get until 31 August 2026 this year.
Not sure which one is yours?
If your income mixes salary, capital gains, freelance work or property, the right form is not always obvious, and getting it wrong risks a defective-return notice. You can check quickly with our ITR eligibility checker, or have a CA confirm and file the correct form through our Income Tax & ITR filing service. Get a free consultation.
The ITR Filing Checklist for AY 2026-27
Every document, deadline and deduction in one clean checklist, so your return is filed right and your refund isn't delayed. We'll email it now.
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