Quick answer
What should I do if I get an income tax notice?
Check what type of notice it is and its deadline, then reply on the e-filing portal before that date. Most intimations need no action, but demands, defective return and scrutiny notices must be answered, or the department can decide without your side.
Common notices and what they mean
Section numbers below are from the Income-tax Act, 1961, which still applies to returns for FY 2025-26 and earlier years.
| Notice | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Intimation after processing (often called a 143(1) notice) | Your return has been processed. It shows a refund, no change, or a demand | Check the computation. If the department made an error, file a rectification |
| Proposed adjustment before processing | Your return does not match AIS, Form 26AS or Form 16 | Agree or disagree online, usually within 30 days |
| Defective return (139(9)) | Something is missing or inconsistent in your return | Respond within the time given, or the return may be treated as invalid |
| Outstanding demand | The department says tax is due | Pay it, or record your disagreement with reasons |
| Scrutiny notice (143(2) or 142(1)) | Your return has been picked for detailed examination | Prepare documents and reply through e-Proceedings |
| Income escaping assessment (148A or 148) | The department believes some income was not reported | Reply carefully and on time. This one needs professional help |
| Compliance portal alerts | High-value transactions or non-filing flagged | Submit your response on the compliance portal |
What we do
- Read the notice and tell you in plain words what it means, how serious it is and the deadline.
- Check your records: your filed return, AIS, Form 26AS and documents.
- Prepare and file the reply on the e-filing portal with supporting documents.
- Follow through: rectification if the department made an error, representation in scrutiny, and an appeal if an order goes against you (usually within 30 days of the order).
Is the notice genuine? You can check any notice on the Income Tax e-filing portal using the "Authenticate notice or order" option. Never pay tax through links sent by SMS or email.
What clients say
I contacted Silvia Consulting, and they handled everything in a very professional and in a simple way. They explained the issue, prepared the response, and kept me updated throughout the process. The notice was closed smoothly, and they helped me save both taxes and penalty. A big thank you.
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Common questions
I got a 143(1) intimation. Should I worry?
Usually not. Most intimations simply confirm your return was processed. Look at whether it shows a demand or a smaller refund than expected. If it does, send it to us and we will check why.
What happens if I ignore a notice?
Ignored demands can be adjusted against future refunds or lead to recovery action. Ignored scrutiny or defective return notices can lead to assessment without your side being heard. Always reply before the deadline.
Can I reply to the notice myself?
Simple intimations, yes. For demands, scrutiny or income escaping assessment, a wrong reply can make things worse, so it is worth getting help.
The deadline has already passed. What now?
Contact us immediately. In many cases a late response or a request for more time can still be filed, but the sooner the better.
Get a clear quote today
Send us a WhatsApp with a line about your situation. The first consultation is free, and we reply within one working day, usually the same day.