ITR Filing 2026: Over 1.7 Crore Returns Filed, Submit ITR-1 and ITR-2 Before July 31

ITR Filing 2026: Over 1.7 Crore Returns Filed, Submit ITR-1 and ITR-2 Before July 31

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.

Last-Minute Train Ticket? Here’s How to Get a Confirmed Seat Before Departure

Last-Minute Train Ticket? Here’s How to Get a Confirmed Seat Before Departure

Train Ticket: Indian Railways has introduced a new reservation facility that makes last-minute train travel much easier. Under the revised booking rules, passengers can now book confirmed tickets for vacant seats in select reserved trains even after the reservation chart has been prepared.

The new system allows travellers to reserve available seats up to 15 minutes before the train’s scheduled departure, provided seats remain vacant after the final reservation chart is released. The initiative aims to improve seat utilisation while offering greater convenience to passengers who need to travel at short notice.

What Is the New Indian Railways Rule?

Earlier, once the reservation chart was prepared, passengers could no longer book confirmed tickets for that train, even if several seats remained vacant.

Under the new rule, Indian Railways will continue accepting bookings for available seats after chart preparation. Passengers can reserve these vacant seats until 15 minutes before the train leaves the station, subject to seat availability.

This move is expected to reduce the number of empty seats and provide more confirmed tickets to passengers travelling at the last minute.

Who Can Benefit from This Facility?

The new booking system is especially helpful for people who need to travel unexpectedly.

It can be useful in situations such as:

  • Medical emergencies
  • Business trips
  • Family emergencies
  • Urgent personal travel
  • Last-minute travel planning

Instead of depending only on Tatkal bookings or waiting list tickets, passengers now have another opportunity to secure a confirmed seat before departure.

How to Book a Confirmed Ticket Before Departure

Passengers can book available seats through any of the following official channels:

IRCTC Website

Visit the official IRCTC website, check seat availability, and complete the booking if vacant seats are available after chart preparation.

IRCTC Rail Connect App

The IRCTC Rail Connect mobile application also allows passengers to check real-time seat availability and book confirmed tickets.

PRS Reservation Counters

Passengers who prefer offline booking can visit any Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counter to book available seats before departure.

Is the Facility Available for Every Train?

No. The facility is available only for select reserved trains where seats remain vacant even after the reservation chart has been prepared.

If all seats are already occupied, passengers will not be able to book tickets under this provision.

Will This Apply to Vande Bharat Express?

According to railway officials, the revised booking facility is also expected to improve seat occupancy in premium trains, including Vande Bharat Express, wherever vacant reserved seats remain available after chart preparation.

This increases the chances of getting a confirmed ticket even close to the departure time.

Things to Remember Before Booking

Passengers should keep the following points in mind:

  • Booking is allowed only if seats remain vacant after chart preparation.
  • Tickets can be booked up to 15 minutes before the scheduled departure of the train.
  • Real-time seat availability can be checked on the official IRCTC website, Rail Connect app, or PRS counters.
  • The facility is available only for eligible reserved trains.

Why This New Rule Is Important

The revised reservation system benefits both passengers and Indian Railways.

Passengers get another opportunity to obtain confirmed tickets during emergencies, while Indian Railways can improve seat occupancy by filling seats that would otherwise remain vacant after chart preparation.

The new facility also reduces the chances of empty reserved seats travelling unused despite high demand.

Conclusion

Train Ticket: The latest Indian Railways reservation rule offers greater flexibility for passengers who need to travel at the last minute. By allowing confirmed ticket bookings up to 15 minutes before departure for vacant seats, the railway aims to make train travel more convenient and efficient.

If you’re planning an urgent journey, don’t forget to check the official IRCTC website, Rail Connect app, or your nearest PRS counter to see if confirmed seats are still available before your train departs.

Indian Railways Travel Rules: 7 Important Guidelines Every Passenger Should Follow

Indian Railways Travel Rules: 7 Important Guidelines Every Passenger Should Follow

Indian Railways Travel Rules: Indian Railways is one of the largest railway networks in the world, serving millions of passengers every day. Whether you’re travelling for work, education, or a family vacation, knowing the basic railway rules can help you avoid unnecessary inconvenience during your journey.

Many passengers are unaware of important rules related to tickets, boarding stations, luggage limits, refunds, and passenger rights. Understanding these guidelines before your trip can save both time and money.

Here are seven important Indian Railways rules that every passenger should know before boarding a train.

1. Always Travel with a Valid Ticket

Every passenger must carry a valid train ticket while travelling. If you are travelling without a confirmed ticket or a valid travel authority, you may be charged a penalty by the Ticket Examiner (TTE).

To avoid fines and inconvenience, always book your ticket through authorized railway booking platforms or ticket counters before starting your journey.

2. Carry a Valid Identity Proof

Passengers travelling on reserved tickets should carry a valid government-issued identity proof throughout the journey.

Documents such as an Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or any other approved ID may be requested during ticket verification.

If multiple passengers are travelling on a single PNR, at least one passenger should carry valid identification.

3. You Can Change Your Boarding Station

If your travel plans change after booking your ticket, Indian Railways allows passengers to change their boarding station within the prescribed time limit before the train departs.

This facility is useful when you need to board the train from a different station due to unexpected changes in your travel schedule.

However, passengers should update their boarding station through the official process before the deadline.

4. Cancel Your Ticket Early to Get a Better Refund

If you no longer plan to travel, cancelling your ticket as early as possible can help you receive a higher refund.

The refund amount depends on how much time remains before the train’s scheduled departure. Last-minute cancellations usually attract higher cancellation charges, and in some cases, no refund may be available.

Therefore, if your journey is cancelled, it is always better to cancel your ticket without delay.

5. Follow Indian Railways Luggage Rules

Indian Railways allows passengers to carry luggage within the prescribed free baggage limit based on their travel class.

If your luggage exceeds the permitted limit, additional charges may apply. Carrying excessive luggage without proper booking may also lead to penalties.

Before travelling, check the luggage allowance applicable to your class to avoid any unexpected charges.

6. Class Upgrade May Be Available

Passengers may get an opportunity to travel in a higher class if seats are available.

Indian Railways occasionally upgrades passengers automatically or allows upgrades according to its rules and seat availability. This gives eligible passengers the chance to enjoy a more comfortable journey without going through a fresh booking process.

7. Know Your Rights During the Journey

Passengers have the right to seek assistance whenever required during their journey.

If you face any problem related to safety, ticket issues, cleanliness, or onboard services, you can contact the Train Ticket Examiner (TTE), Railway Protection Force (RPF), or railway staff for immediate assistance.

You can also register complaints through Rail Madad or use official railway helpline services to report issues during your journey.

Why Knowing Railway Rules Is Important

Being aware of Indian Railways’ rules can make your journey more comfortable and stress-free.

Whether it’s changing your boarding station, carrying valid identification, understanding luggage limits, or claiming ticket refunds, knowing these rules helps you avoid unnecessary penalties and last-minute confusion.

A little awareness before your journey can save time, reduce stress, and ensure a smoother travel experience.

Conclusion

Indian Railways Travel Rules: Travelling by train becomes much easier when you know your rights and responsibilities as a passenger. Before your next journey, make sure you carry a valid ticket and ID proof, understand the luggage and refund rules, and stay informed about facilities like boarding station changes and class upgrades.

Following these simple Indian Railways guidelines will help you enjoy a safe, hassle-free, and comfortable journey.

E20 Fuel Guide: Smart Ways to Protect Older Cars from Potential Damage

E20 Fuel Guide: Smart Ways to Protect Older Cars from Potential Damage

India has achieved its E20 fuel target ahead of schedule, marking a major step towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation. While this move supports the country’s efforts to reduce fuel imports and emissions, many owners of older petrol cars are worried about whether E20 petrol could affect their vehicle’s engine.

If your car was manufactured before April 2023, you may be wondering whether E20 petrol is safe to use and what steps you can take to avoid long-term damage. The good news is that you can reduce the risks by following a few simple maintenance practices and making a few upgrades where necessary.

Does E20 Petrol Damage Every Vehicle?

The answer is no. E20 petrol is not harmful to every vehicle.

Most petrol cars manufactured in India after April 2023 are designed and tested to run on E20 fuel without any major issues. These vehicles have fuel systems, engine components, and software calibrated to handle a higher ethanol blend.

The concern mainly applies to older petrol vehicles that were originally designed for E10 fuel or regular petrol. These vehicles may experience faster wear of certain components if they are used continuously with E20 petrol without proper maintenance.

Why Can E20 Petrol Affect Older Cars?

E20 petrol contains 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. Ethanol behaves differently from conventional petrol, which is why older fuel systems may face additional stress.

One of the biggest concerns is that ethanol absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. Over time, this moisture can lead to corrosion inside metal fuel tanks and fuel system components.

Ethanol can also affect older rubber seals, hoses, and plastic fuel lines. Continuous exposure may cause these parts to harden, crack, or deteriorate, eventually leading to fuel leaks or reduced engine performance.

Another factor is fuel efficiency. Ethanol contains less energy than petrol, so vehicles running on E20 may deliver slightly lower mileage. Older engines that were not designed for ethanol blends may experience a more noticeable drop in fuel economy.

How to Protect Your Older Car from E20 Petrol

Although older vehicles require extra care, you can significantly reduce the impact of E20 petrol by following these expert-recommended tips.

Use a Quality Fuel Additive

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel stability is by using a reliable fuel additive designed for ethanol-blended petrol.

Products such as Sea Foam, Sta-Bil, or Abro Fuel Treatment help reduce moisture-related problems, improve fuel stability, and keep the fuel system cleaner. Regular use can provide additional protection for older engines.

Replace Old Fuel Lines

Rubber fuel lines in older vehicles are more vulnerable to ethanol damage.

Replacing them with ethanol-resistant PTFE or braided steel fuel lines can improve durability and reduce the chances of cracks or leaks. Depending on the vehicle, this upgrade usually costs between Rs 2,500 and Rs 5,000.

Upgrade Rubber Seals and Gaskets

Older rubber seals and gaskets can wear out faster when exposed to higher ethanol content.

Replacing these components with modern ethanol-resistant materials such as Viton O-rings and upgraded gaskets can help prevent leaks and improve the overall reliability of the fuel system.

Protect the Fuel Tank

Because ethanol attracts moisture, metal fuel tanks are at greater risk of rust and corrosion over time.

Applying a protective coating such as phenol novolac epoxy or advanced urethane inside the fuel tank creates a barrier against moisture and helps extend the life of the tank.

Check for ECU Updates

E20 fuel requires a slightly different air-fuel mixture compared to regular petrol.

Visit your vehicle’s authorised service centre to check whether an updated ECU calibration is available for your model. If no official update exists, some workshops offer piggyback ECU tuning to improve compatibility with ethanol-blended fuel. The cost generally ranges from Rs 7,000 to Rs 10,000.

Additional Tips for E20 Fuel Users

Apart from upgrades, following good maintenance habits can also help protect your vehicle.

  • Service your car at the recommended intervals.
  • Replace the fuel filter regularly.
  • Avoid leaving the fuel tank nearly empty for long periods, as moisture can accumulate more easily.
  • Start and drive the vehicle regularly instead of letting it remain unused for weeks.
  • Watch for signs such as poor mileage, difficult starting, rough idling, or reduced engine performance, and get the vehicle inspected if these symptoms appear.

Should You Be Worried About E20 Petrol?

There is no need to panic if you own an older petrol car. E20 petrol does not immediately damage engines, but long-term use without proper maintenance may increase wear on certain fuel system components.

By replacing ageing parts, using ethanol-compatible components, and following regular servicing schedules, most older petrol vehicles can continue to operate safely and reliably with E20 fuel.

Conclusion

India’s shift towards E20 petrol is an important milestone in promoting cleaner fuels, but owners of older petrol vehicles should take a few extra precautions. Simple upgrades like ethanol-resistant fuel lines, better seals, protective fuel tank coatings, and regular maintenance can significantly reduce the impact of E20 petrol.

With proper care and timely servicing, you can continue driving your older car confidently while adapting to India’s growing use of ethanol-blended fuel.

6 New Financial Rules Starting July 1: What Changes for Taxpayers, Aadhaar Holders and Bank Customers

6 New Financial Rules Starting July 1: What Changes for Taxpayers, Aadhaar Holders and Bank Customers

July 2026 is set to bring several important changes that may affect taxpayers, bank customers, Aadhaar users, and people planning to apply for passport services.

From income tax return deadlines to changes in credit card benefits and new banking guidelines, these updates can impact everyday financial activities. Knowing these changes in advance can help individuals avoid penalties, additional charges, and service-related issues.

Here are the key financial changes coming into effect from July 1, 2026.

ITR Filing Deadline: Taxpayers Need to File Returns Before July 31

The deadline for filing ITR-1 and ITR-2 for the Financial Year 2025-26 (Assessment Year 2026-27) is July 31, 2026.

Taxpayers who miss the deadline may have to pay penalties and could also lose certain benefits, including the option to carry forward eligible losses to future assessment years.

Experts advise taxpayers to complete their return filing process well before the due date to avoid last-minute technical problems or document-related delays.

Aadhaar Email Update Will Be Free for Six Months

Aadhaar holders will get relief as UIDAI is removing the fee for updating registered email addresses through the Aadhaar mobile application.

Currently, users have to pay ₹75 for this service. However, from July 1, 2026, the email update facility will be available free of cost for six months until December 31, 2026.

The move is expected to make Aadhaar-related updates easier and more accessible for users.

SBI Card Reward Points Rules Are Changing

SBI Card is revising its reward points programme for selected PhonePe SBI Credit Cards from July 1, 2026.

The changes will apply to:

  • PhonePe SBI Credit Card PURPLE
  • PhonePe SBI Credit Card SELECT BLACK

Under the revised system, customers may see changes in reward point earning limits and eligible transactions. Some categories that previously offered reward points may no longer qualify under the updated terms.

Cardholders should check the revised reward structure before making transactions to understand the impact on their benefits.

HDFC Bank Credit Card Lounge Access Will Depend on Spending

HDFC Bank credit card users will need to meet a spending requirement to enjoy complimentary domestic airport lounge access.

From July 1, 2026, customers will get three free domestic lounge visits per calendar quarter only if they spend at least ₹60,000 in the previous quarter.

For example, customers who want to use lounge benefits during the July-September 2026 quarter must complete the required spending between April and June 2026.

The same rule will continue for upcoming quarters.

Passport Services Will Become More Expensive

Applying for a passport may cost more from July 1, 2026, as the Ministry of External Affairs has revised passport service fees.

The updated charges will apply to both normal and Tatkaal passport services in India as well as overseas locations.

Those planning to apply for a new passport or renew an existing one should check the revised fee structure before submitting their application.

RBI Introduces New Rules to Prevent Financial Product Mis-Selling

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will introduce a new framework from July 1, 2026, to protect customers from being mis-sold financial products by banks and other institutions.

Under the new rules, customers who are wrongly sold financial products may be eligible for a refund and compensation for losses caused due to such practices.

The move aims to improve transparency in financial services and strengthen customer protection.

Why These July 2026 Financial Changes Matter

These updates may directly affect how people manage their taxes, banking services, digital identity, and financial products.

Whether you are filing an income tax return, updating Aadhaar details, using a credit card, or planning a passport application, staying informed about these changes can help you avoid unnecessary delays and additional costs.

New Financial Rules: Keeping track of such financial updates allows individuals to make better decisions and manage their money more effectively.

EPFO 3.0 New Features: PF Withdrawal Through ATM, UPI Access and Other Changes Explained

EPFO 3.0 New Features: PF Withdrawal Through ATM, UPI Access and Other Changes Explained

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to introduce major digital upgrades under the EPFO 3.0 platform. The new system aims to make provident fund services faster, simpler, and more convenient for millions of subscribers across India.

One of the biggest changes expected under EPFO 3.0 is the introduction of PF withdrawal facilities through UPI apps and EPF-linked ATMs. This move is expected to reduce paperwork, speed up fund access, and provide members with easier ways to manage their retirement savings.

Apart from instant withdrawal options, EPFO 3.0 will also bring several digital improvements, including faster claim processing, easier fund transfers, and improved online services.

What Is EPFO 3.0?

EPFO 3.0 is a digital transformation initiative introduced to modernise the EPFO system and improve the overall experience for employees. The platform focuses on making provident fund-related services more accessible through technology.

Under this upgrade, EPFO members are expected to get features such as UPI-based PF withdrawals, ATM withdrawal facilities, auto claim settlements, faster fund transfers, and simplified KYC updates.

The objective is to reduce dependency on manual processes and allow subscribers to access their PF services digitally.

When Will EPFO 3.0 UPI and ATM Withdrawal Facility Start?

The UPI and ATM withdrawal facility under EPFO 3.0 is expected to be rolled out soon. According to media reports, the service may become available by the end of June, although EPFO has not announced an official launch date yet.

The new system has reportedly completed testing, and the final rollout is expected after necessary approvals and preparations.

Once launched, EPFO subscribers will also be able to check their provident fund balance through UPI applications, making account management more convenient.

Will EPFO Members Get an ATM Card for PF Withdrawal?

Under the proposed EPFO 3.0 system, members may get access to EPF-linked ATM cards that will allow direct withdrawal of provident fund money through ATMs.

These cards are expected to be connected with the member’s PF account and will provide another digital option for accessing eligible funds without following lengthy withdrawal procedures.

However, detailed information regarding the issuance process, card availability, and operational guidelines is yet to be released by EPFO.

EPFO 3.0 Withdrawal Limit Through UPI and ATM

EPFO has not officially announced any separate withdrawal limit for UPI or ATM transactions under the new platform.

The existing EPF withdrawal rules are expected to remain applicable even after the introduction of digital withdrawal facilities.

Currently, eligible members can withdraw a portion of their PF balance depending on the purpose of withdrawal and applicable conditions. Reports suggest that the new system may allow instant withdrawal of up to 75% of the available EPF balance through digital channels.

The remaining amount will continue to remain invested as a retirement savings component to ensure long-term financial security.

How Will PF Withdrawal Through UPI and ATM Work?

The new withdrawal process under EPFO 3.0 is expected to work through digital authentication and linked financial accounts.

Members may need:

  • An active Universal Account Number (UAN)
  • Aadhaar-linked UAN
  • Updated PAN details
  • Verified bank account information
  • Registered mobile number for OTP verification

Once eligibility and verification requirements are completed, members may be able to access PF withdrawal services through supported UPI platforms or EPF-linked ATMs.

Who Will Be Eligible for EPFO 3.0 Digital Withdrawal?

EPFO members with updated KYC details are expected to use the new digital withdrawal facilities.

To avoid issues during transactions, subscribers should ensure that their Aadhaar, PAN, bank account details, and mobile number are correctly linked with their EPF account.

Members with incomplete or outdated KYC information may need to update their details before using the new services.

Other Major Changes Expected Under EPFO 3.0

Apart from UPI and ATM withdrawal facilities, EPFO 3.0 will introduce several other improvements to make services more user-friendly.

Faster Auto Claim Settlement

EPFO has already increased the automatic claim settlement limit from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh. This will allow more eligible claims to be processed automatically without manual intervention.

Face Authentication Through UMANG App

The platform is also expected to support Face Authentication Technology through the UMANG application. This feature will help simplify identity verification and reduce paperwork during claim processing.

Easier KYC Updates

EPFO members will be able to update personal details and make corrections through Aadhaar-based OTP verification, making account management easier.

Improved Pension and Fund Transfer Services

EPFO 3.0 is also expected to improve pension withdrawal processes and enable smoother fund transfers between accounts.

Benefits of EPFO 3.0 for Salaried Employees

The new digital platform will provide several advantages to EPFO subscribers, including:

  • Faster PF withdrawal through UPI and ATM facilities
  • Reduced paperwork and simpler claim processing
  • Quick auto-settlement of eligible claims
  • Easier KYC updates through digital verification
  • Improved access to EPFO services online
  • More convenient management of provident fund accounts

Conclusion

EPFO 3.0 is expected to bring significant changes to how employees access and manage their provident fund accounts. With features like UPI-based withdrawals, ATM access, faster claim settlement, and improved digital services, the platform aims to make EPFO services more transparent and convenient.

However, until EPFO releases official guidelines, existing withdrawal rules, eligibility criteria, and tax regulations will continue to apply. Subscribers should wait for official updates before using the new facilities.