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.
If you’ve recently started receiving calls from numbers beginning with 1600 or 140, you may be wondering whether they are genuine or spam. To clear the confusion, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has explained the purpose of these two number series and how they should be handled.
According to TRAI, 1600-series and 140-series numbers serve completely different purposes. While one is reserved for important service-related communication, the other is meant only for promotional and marketing calls.
Here’s everything you need to know.
What Are 1600-Series Calls?
The 1600-series is reserved for service and transaction-related calls. These calls are generally made by banks, financial institutions, insurance companies, and government departments to communicate important information with existing customers or citizens.
Examples of 1600-series calls include:
Banking transaction alerts
Loan-related updates
Insurance policy information
Investment account notifications
Government service communication
Pension-related updates
These calls are intended to provide essential information rather than advertise products or services.
Who Can Use 1600-Series Numbers?
TRAI has restricted the use of 1600-series numbers to regulated organizations.
These include institutions supervised by:
Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)
Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)
Government departments are also permitted to use these numbers for official communication with citizens.
Can 1600-Series Calls Be Blocked?
No. According to TRAI, telecom operators and third-party caller identification applications are not allowed to tag, filter, or block 1600-series calls.
This means these calls should not appear with labels such as “Spam” or “Suspected Spam” simply because they originate from the 1600 series.
The reason is that these calls often carry important service-related information that customers should receive without interruption.
What Are 140-Series Calls?
The 140-series is used exclusively for promotional and marketing calls.
Businesses across different industries use these numbers to promote products, services, offers, discounts, and marketing campaigns.
Companies must register with their telecom service provider before making promotional calls through the 140 series, as required under TRAI’s Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations (TCCCPR).
Can You Block 140-Series Calls?
Yes. Unlike 1600-series calls, 140-series marketing calls are governed by the Do Not Disturb (DND) framework.
If you have activated DND or blocked promotional communication from specific sectors, you should not receive promotional calls from those categories.
Customers can register, modify, or update their DND preferences using the official TRAI DND platform or other approved channels provided by their telecom operator.
Key Differences Between 1600 and 140 Series Calls
Feature
1600 Series
140 Series
Purpose
Service and transaction-related communication
Promotional and marketing calls
Used By
Banks, financial institutions, government departments
Registered businesses and advertisers
Nature of Calls
Important customer updates
Sales, offers, promotions and advertisements
Covered Under DND
No
Yes
Can Telecom Operators Tag as Spam?
No
Generally not, except where DND blocking applies
Can Customers Block Them Through DND?
No
Yes
Why Has TRAI Introduced These Number Series?
The dedicated numbering system helps customers easily identify the purpose of incoming calls.
When users know whether a call is related to an important service or a promotional campaign, they can make better decisions about answering or ignoring it.
The move also aims to improve transparency and reduce confusion caused by unwanted commercial calls.
How to Reduce Unwanted Promotional Calls
If you want to receive fewer marketing calls, you can:
Activate the Do Not Disturb (DND) service.
Update your communication preferences with your telecom operator.
Report unsolicited commercial communications that violate DND rules.
Avoid sharing your mobile number on untrusted websites and apps.
These steps can significantly reduce unwanted promotional calls while ensuring you continue receiving important service-related communications.
Conclusion
The 1600 and 140 number series serve different purposes under TRAI’s regulations. 1600-series calls are meant for important service and transaction-related communication from regulated financial institutions and government departments, while 140-series calls are used only for promotional and marketing purposes.
Understanding the difference can help you identify genuine service calls, manage promotional communication more effectively, and make better use of the DND facility to reduce unwanted marketing calls.
The Income Tax Department has urged taxpayers to complete their Income Tax Return (ITR) filing well before the July 31, 2026 deadline for the Assessment Year (AY) 2026-27. With only a few days left, more than 1.7 crore taxpayers have already filed their returns, and the filing pace continues to increase.
According to the department, over 10 lakh ITRs were filed on July 10 alone, making it one of the busiest filing days of the season. Taxpayers who have not yet submitted ITR-1 or ITR-2 are advised to avoid waiting until the last moment to prevent technical issues and unnecessary delays.
More Than 1.7 Crore Tax Returns Already Filed
The Income Tax Department shared the latest filing statistics through its official social media channels, encouraging taxpayers to file their returns as early as possible.
The department stated that the ITR utilities and online filing portal for AY 2026-27 have been available since May 15, 2026. Since then, over 1.7 crore returns have been successfully filed, showing that many taxpayers have already completed the process well before the deadline.
The department also highlighted that filing early helps taxpayers avoid the last-minute rush and ensures faster processing of refunds.
Why You Should File Your ITR Before July 31
Many taxpayers wait until the final few days to file their income tax returns. However, this often leads to heavy traffic on the e-filing portal, which can result in slow loading, technical glitches, login issues, or submission failures.
By filing your return early, you can:
Avoid heavy traffic on the income tax portal.
Reduce the chances of technical errors.
Get your tax refund processed sooner.
Correct mistakes before the deadline if required.
Stay compliant with tax laws and avoid penalties.
Submitting your return in advance makes the entire process much smoother and stress-free.
What Happens If You Miss the ITR Filing Deadline?
If you fail to file your Income Tax Return by July 31, 2026, you may have to file a belated return.
While taxpayers can still submit a belated return up to December 31, 2026, missing the original deadline can have several consequences, including:
Late filing fees under the Income Tax Act.
Delay in receiving tax refunds.
Restrictions on carrying forward certain losses.
Additional compliance requirements.
Filing your return on time helps you avoid these unnecessary complications.
Who Should File ITR-1?
ITR-1 (Sahaj) is the simplest income tax return form and is suitable for most salaried individuals.
You can file ITR-1 if:
You are a resident individual.
Your total annual income is up to ₹50 lakh.
Your income comes from salary or pension.
You have income from one house property.
You earn income from other sources within the prescribed limits.
Agricultural income does not exceed ₹5,000 in a financial year.
This form is ideal for most salaried employees with straightforward income sources.
Who Should File ITR-2?
ITR-2 is meant for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who do not earn income from business or profession but have more complex financial situations.
ITR-2 is applicable if you have:
Capital gains from shares, mutual funds, or property.
More than one house property.
Foreign assets or foreign income.
Other income that is not covered under ITR-1.
Taxpayers with investment income or multiple income sources should carefully check whether ITR-2 applies to them.
How to File Your Income Tax Return Online
The Income Tax Department allows taxpayers to file returns through its official e-filing portal.
Before submitting your return, make sure to verify all the pre-filled information, including:
Salary details.
TDS information.
Form 26AS.
Annual Information Statement (AIS).
Bank account details.
Capital gains and other income, if applicable.
Checking these details carefully can help avoid errors and future notices from the tax department.
Benefits of Filing Your ITR Early
Filing your income tax return before the deadline offers several advantages:
Faster processing of tax refunds.
Less chance of facing portal congestion.
More time to correct any mistakes.
Reduced stress during the filing season.
Compliance with tax laws without paying late fees.
Early filing also helps taxpayers complete financial documentation required for loans, visas, and other official purposes.
Conclusion
With the July 31, 2026 deadline approaching, taxpayers who have not yet filed their ITR-1 or ITR-2 should complete the process as soon as possible. More than 1.7 crore returns have already been filed, and the number continues to rise every day.
Filing your Income Tax Return on time not only helps you avoid late fees and technical issues but also ensures quicker refund processing and a hassle-free tax filing experience. Before submitting your return, carefully review all the information and choose the correct ITR form based on your income sources.
The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) has officially released the Combined Technical Services Examination (CTSE) Diploma/ITI Level Notification 2026. Through this recruitment drive, the commission aims to fill 839 vacancies across various technical departments in Tamil Nadu.
The recruitment includes several posts such as Road Inspector, Assistant Agricultural Officer, Junior Draughting Officer, Junior Training Officer, Overseer, Technical Assistant, Motor Vehicle Inspector, Textile Inspector, Surveyor cum Assistant Draughtsman, and many more.
The online application process will begin on 17 July 2026, and eligible candidates can submit their applications through the official TNPSC website until 15 August 2026. Candidates possessing an ITI certificate, Diploma, or relevant undergraduate qualification can apply for the posts as per the eligibility criteria mentioned in the official notification.
TNPSC has published the detailed notification containing complete information about the recruitment process, including eligibility criteria, age limit, educational qualifications, vacancy details, selection process, examination pattern, and important instructions for applicants.
Candidates are advised to download the official notification and carefully read all the guidelines before submitting the online application.
TNPSC CTSE Diploma ITI Vacancy 2026
A total of 839 vacancies have been announced across 56 different technical posts. Some of the major vacancies are listed below.
Post Name
Vacancies
Road Inspector
149
Overseer / Junior Draughting Officer
129
Assistant Agricultural Officer
110
Junior Draughting Officer
101
Surveyor cum Assistant Draughtsman
32
Assistant Horticultural Officer
24
Procurement and Quality Control Supervisor
20
Junior Training Officer (Fitter)
17
Technical Assistant
15
Junior Training Officer (Wireman)
15
Radio Supervisor
14
Assistant Manager
14
Junior Training Officer (Workshop Calculation & Science)
14
Sub-Inspector of Fisheries
12
Special Overseer
12
Mechanic Motor Vehicle JTO
9
Mine Mate
8
Junior Training Officer (Welder)
8
Other Technical Posts
Remaining Vacancies
Total
839
Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for TNPSC CTSE Diploma/ITI Level Recruitment 2026 must possess the required educational qualification relevant to the post.
Eligible qualifications include:
ITI Certificate in the relevant trade
Diploma in the relevant engineering discipline
Bachelor’s Degree (for selected posts)
Other technical qualifications as prescribed in the official notification
Since educational requirements differ from one post to another, candidates should verify the post-wise eligibility before applying.
TNPSC CTSE Diploma ITI Age Limit
Candidates must satisfy the age criteria prescribed by TNPSC as on 1 July 2026.
Criteria
Age Limit
Minimum Age
18 Years
Maximum Age
Varies by Post and Category
The maximum age limit differs depending on the post and category. Applicants should refer to the official notification for complete post-wise age details and applicable age relaxation.
Important Dates
Event
Date
Notification Released
July 2026
Online Application Starts
17 July 2026
Last Date to Apply
15 August 2026
Exam Date
To be Announced
Selection Process
The selection process for TNPSC CTSE Diploma ITI Recruitment 2026 will be conducted in multiple stages.
Stage
Details
Stage 1
Written Examination
Stage 2
Certificate Verification
Stage 3
Final Merit List
Candidates will be shortlisted based on their performance in the written examination and verification of original documents.
How to Apply for TNPSC CTSE Diploma ITI Recruitment 2026
Eligible candidates can complete the online application process by following these steps:
Visit the official TNPSC website at tnpsc.gov.in.
Click on the Combined Technical Services Examination (Diploma/ITI Level) Recruitment 2026 link.
Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
Log in with your registration credentials.
Fill in the application form with personal, educational, and communication details.
Upload the required documents, photograph, and signature.
Pay the application fee through the available online payment methods.
Verify all the information before submitting the form.
Submit the application and download the confirmation page for future reference.
Documents Required
Candidates should keep the following documents ready before filling out the application form:
SSLC/Class 10 Certificate
ITI/Diploma/Degree Certificates
Community Certificate (if applicable)
Aadhaar Card or any valid Photo ID
Recent Passport-size Photograph
Signature
Valid Mobile Number and Email ID
Other post-specific certificates, if required
Why Apply for TNPSC CTSE Diploma ITI Recruitment 2026?
The TNPSC CTSE Diploma ITI Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for candidates seeking technical government jobs in Tamil Nadu. With 839 vacancies across multiple departments and a wide range of posts for ITI, Diploma, and Degree holders, this recruitment offers stable employment, competitive salaries, career growth, and government benefits. Interested candidates should complete the application process between 17 July and 15 August 2026 after ensuring they meet all eligibility requirements mentioned in the official notification.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has started the online application process for Airmen Group ‘Y’ Medical Assistant posts under Intake 02/2027. Candidates who meet the required eligibility criteria can submit their applications online from 6 July 2026 to 26 July 2026 through the official recruitment portal.
This recruitment offers an excellent opportunity for candidates who have completed 10+2 with PCB, a vocational course, or possess a Diploma/B.Pharma/B.Sc in Pharmacy. The selection process includes an online written examination, Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Adaptability Test, and Medical Examination.
Candidates interested in joining the Indian Air Force are advised to read the official notification carefully before applying online.
Indian Air Force Airmen Recruitment 2026 Overview
Particulars
Details
Organisation
Indian Air Force (IAF)
Recruitment
Airmen Group ‘Y’ Medical Assistant
Intake
02/2027
Application Mode
Online
Online Application Starts
6 July 2026
Last Date to Apply
26 July 2026
Written Exam Date
22 & 23 September 2026
Selection Process
Written Exam, Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Adaptability Test, Medical Examination
Training Stipend
₹14,600 per month
Monthly Pay After Training
Around ₹26,900 per month (as applicable)
Official Website
iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in
Air Force Airmen Intake 02/2027 Notification
The Indian Air Force has released the detailed notification for Airmen Group ‘Y’ Medical Assistant Recruitment 2026. The notification contains complete information regarding eligibility criteria, age limit, educational qualifications, medical standards, physical fitness requirements, exam pattern, important dates, and the selection process.
Candidates should download and read the notification carefully before submitting their application.
Indian Air Force Airmen 2026 Important Dates
Event
Date
Notification Released
July 2026
Online Application Begins
6 July 2026
Last Date to Apply
26 July 2026
Written Examination
22 & 23 September 2026
Indian Air Force Airmen Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for the Group ‘Y’ Medical Assistant trade must fulfill any one of the following educational qualifications.
Option 1
Candidates should have passed 10+2/Intermediate or equivalent with the following subjects:
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
English
They must secure at least 50% aggregate marks and 50% marks in English from a recognized Central, State, or UT Education Board.
Option 2
Candidates who have completed a two-year vocational course with the following non-vocational subjects are also eligible:
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
English
A minimum of 50% aggregate marks and 50% marks in English is required.
Option 3
Candidates holding any of the following qualifications are also eligible:
Diploma in Pharmacy
B.Pharma
B.Sc in Pharmacy
In addition, they must have:
Passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.
Secured at least 50% aggregate marks in both 10+2 and Pharmacy qualification.
Valid registration with the State Pharmacy Council or the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) at the time of enrolment.
Indian Air Force Airmen Selection Process
The selection process consists of multiple stages to assess candidates’ knowledge, physical fitness, and medical suitability.
Stage
Details
Stage 1
Online Written Examination
Stage 2
Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
Stage 3
Adaptability Test
Stage 4
Medical Examination
Candidates must qualify in each stage to proceed to the next phase of recruitment.
Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
Candidates shortlisted after the written examination will be required to appear for the Physical Fitness Test. They must meet the physical standards prescribed by the Indian Air Force to remain eligible for further selection.
Salary and Benefits
During the training period, selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend of ₹14,600.
After successful completion of training, Airmen will receive a starting monthly salary of approximately ₹26,900, along with other allowances and benefits as per Indian Air Force rules.
How to Apply for Indian Air Force Airmen Recruitment 2026
Candidates can complete the online application process by following these steps:
Visit the official recruitment portal at iafrecruitment.edcil.co.in.
Click on the Airmen Group ‘Y’ Medical Assistant Intake 02/2027 recruitment link.
Register using your name, mobile number, and email ID.
Log in with your registered credentials.
Fill in all personal, educational, and communication details carefully.
Upload the required documents, photograph, and signature.
Pay the application fee through the available online payment methods.
Verify all details before submitting the application.
Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference.
Documents Required
Before filling out the application form, candidates should keep the following documents ready:
Valid Pharmacy Council Registration (for Pharmacy candidates)
Passport-size photograph
Signature
Aadhaar Card or any valid photo ID
Mobile number and email ID
Why Apply for Indian Air Force Airmen Recruitment 2026?
Joining the Indian Air Force as an Airman (Group ‘Y’ Medical Assistant) provides an opportunity to build a respected career in the defence sector. Along with a competitive salary, candidates receive professional training, medical facilities, career growth opportunities, and various government benefits. Those who meet the eligibility criteria should complete the application process well before 26 July 2026 to avoid any last-minute issues.
UPPSC Prelims Application Form 2026: The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) has started the online application process for the Combined State/Upper Subordinate Services (PCS) Examination 2026. Graduates who meet the eligibility requirements can submit their applications through the official UPPSC website from 25 June 2026 to 27 July 2026.
Through this recruitment drive, UPPSC aims to fill 500 General and Specialist vacancies in various government departments across Uttar Pradesh. Interested candidates should complete the registration process before the last date to avoid any technical issues during the final days of application.
Before filling out the application form, applicants must complete the One Time Registration (OTR) process and obtain a valid OTR number, as it is mandatory for online registration.
The recruitment includes several administrative and specialist positions in different government departments. Some of the major posts are:
Principal
Senior Lecturer (DIET)
Assistant Labour Commissioner
Labour Enforcement Officer
Food Safety Officer
District Probation Officer
District Programme Officer
Deputy Jailor
Excise Inspector
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)
District Commandant Home Guards
Superintendent of Jail
Other General and Specialist posts
The final selection process and eligibility requirements vary depending on the post. Certain positions, including DSP, Deputy Jailor, Excise Inspector, District Commandant Home Guards, and Superintendent of Jail, also require candidates to meet prescribed physical standards.
UPPSC Prelims Application Form 2026
Eligible candidates can submit the online application by visiting the official UPPSC portal. Before applying, candidates should carefully read the official notification to verify their educational qualifications, age limit, reservation benefits, and post-specific eligibility criteria.
Applicants who have not completed their One Time Registration (OTR) must do so before proceeding with the online application.
How to Apply for UPPSC Prelims Recruitment 2026
Candidates can complete the application process by following these steps:
Visit the official UPPSC website at uppsc.up.nic.in.
Click on the Combined State/Upper Subordinate Services (PCS) Examination 2026 application link.
Select the Apply Online option.
Complete the OTR authentication.
Log in using your OTR number.
Fill in the required personal, educational, and communication details.
Upload the necessary documents in the prescribed format.
Pay the application fee through the available online payment methods.
Review the application carefully before final submission.
Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference.
UPPSC Prelims 2026 Application Fee
Candidates are required to pay the application fee online using Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, Net Banking, or other available payment methods.
Category
Application Fee
General, OBC, EWS
₹125
SC, ST, Ex-Servicemen
₹65
Persons with Disabilities (PwD)
₹25
Women, Dependents of Freedom Fighters, Skilled Players
As per their respective category
UPPSC Prelims 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must satisfy the eligibility conditions prescribed by UPPSC before submitting the application form. While a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is the basic qualification for most posts, certain specialist positions require additional educational qualifications, professional experience, or technical certifications.
The age limit, educational qualifications, and physical standards differ depending on the post. Therefore, candidates should carefully review the official notification before applying.
Important Dates
Notification Released: 25 June 2026
Online Application Begins: 25 June 2026
Last Date to Apply: 27 July 2026
Documents Required for UPPSC Application Form 2026
Candidates should keep the following documents ready before starting the online application process:
One Time Registration (OTR) Number
Recent passport-size photograph
Signature
Educational certificates
Identity proof
Category certificate (if applicable)
Disability certificate (if applicable)
Other documents required for the specific post
Final Words
The UPPSC PCS Recruitment 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for graduates aspiring to secure prestigious Group A and Group B government jobs in Uttar Pradesh. Since the application window is open until 27 July 2026, eligible candidates are advised to complete their registration well before the deadline. Applicants should also ensure that all details entered in the application form are accurate and match the information provided in their official documents to avoid rejection during the verification process.
