With the July 31, 2026 deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) fast approaching, taxpayers are being advised not to wait until the last moment. Delaying your return can lead to penalties, delayed refunds, and the loss of several tax-related benefits.

To make the filing process easier, fintech platforms PhonePe and JioFinance have introduced affordable in-app tax filing services, allowing users to file their ITR from their smartphones without visiting multiple websites.

PhonePe and Jio Finance Launch Affordable ITR Filing Service

PhonePe and JioFinance have partnered with TaxBuddy, a registered e-Return Intermediary (ERI), to offer online income tax filing services directly through their mobile applications.

Users can choose between filing their returns themselves or taking assistance from tax experts, depending on their requirements.

One of the biggest highlights is that self-filing plans start at just ₹24, making tax filing more affordable for millions of taxpayers.

DIY and Expert-Assisted Filing Options Available

The platforms offer two convenient ways to file Income Tax Returns.

Self-Filing (DIY)

Taxpayers who are comfortable filing their own returns can use the DIY option. The app guides users through the filing process and automatically retrieves relevant tax information, making the process quick and simple.

Expert-Assisted Filing

Those who have more complex tax situations can choose expert assistance. Tax professionals help prepare and file the return, ensuring better accuracy and compliance.

Suitable for Salaried Employees and Other Taxpayers

The service is designed not only for salaried individuals but also for taxpayers with multiple income sources.

It supports returns involving:

  • Salary income
  • Business income
  • Capital gains
  • Futures and Options (F&O) trading
  • Cryptocurrency transactions
  • Foreign income
  • Non-Resident Indian (NRI) tax filing

This makes it useful for both simple and complex tax profiles.

TaxBuddy Handles the Filing Process

Both PhonePe and JioFinance use TaxBuddy’s technology for tax filing.

Since TaxBuddy is a registered e-Return Intermediary with the Income Tax Department, users can complete the entire filing process securely without leaving the fintech app.

This eliminates the need to visit multiple websites or manually upload information.

Features Available on the JioFinance App

JioFinance offers several useful tools to simplify tax filing, including:

  • Automatic retrieval of tax information from the Income Tax Department.
  • Tax planning tools.
  • Comparison of old and new tax regimes.
  • Deduction estimation.
  • Refund tracking.
  • Secure processing of taxpayer data.

These features help users complete their returns with greater convenience and accuracy.

PhonePe Also Offers GST Compliance Services

Apart from Income Tax Return filing, PhonePe has also integrated GST-related services into its platform.

Users can:

  • File Income Tax Returns.
  • Manage monthly GST compliance.
  • Choose between self-filing and expert-assisted tax filing.

This makes the platform useful for both salaried individuals and business owners.

ITR Filing Charges

The pricing varies depending on the complexity of the return.

  • Self-filing plans start from ₹24.
  • Salaried taxpayers can choose plans ranging from ₹24 to ₹499.
  • Taxpayers with capital gains, F&O trading, or cryptocurrency income can avail plans starting from ₹99.
  • Expert-assisted filing starts from ₹649.
  • Advanced plans for NRIs and taxpayers with business income are available up to ₹2,924.

Users can select a plan based on their income sources and filing requirements.

Why You Should File Your ITR Before the Deadline

Waiting until the last few days can create unnecessary problems due to increased traffic on the Income Tax e-filing portal.

Filing your return early offers several benefits:

  • Avoid late filing penalties.
  • Receive tax refunds faster.
  • Reduce the risk of technical issues.
  • Get enough time to correct mistakes if required.
  • Complete the process without last-minute stress.

Timely filing also helps maintain proper financial records for loans, visas, and other official purposes.

Conclusion

As the July 31, 2026 ITR filing deadline approaches, taxpayers should complete their returns without delay. With affordable tax filing services now available through PhonePe and JioFinance, filing an Income Tax Return has become quicker, easier, and more accessible.

Whether you are a salaried employee, investor, business owner, or NRI, you can choose a suitable filing plan based on your income profile and ensure your return is submitted well before the deadline.