Who has to file an income tax return in India?

Name: Vijay R Singh & Co.
Address: Office No. 4, Vishal CHSL, D Wing, Sir Mathuradas Vasanji Road, Azad Nagar, Opp. Andheri Gymkhana, Andheri East, Maharashtra, 400069, IN
Telephone: +91 98607 23959

CA Vijay R Singh, FCA
Chartered Accountant · ICAI M.No. 153926 · FRN 136869W

Short answerYou must file if your total income before deductions crosses the basic exemption limit — ₹2.5 lakh (old regime) or ₹4 lakh (new regime, FY 2025-26). You must also file regardless of income if you hit certain triggers, like large bank deposits, foreign assets, or high TDS. And it’s worth filing just to claim a refund.

When it's mandatory

Income above the basic exemption, or specified triggers: foreign assets/income, deposits over the prescribed limits, large spends on foreign travel or electricity, or TDS/TCS above the threshold. Confirm the current trigger limits per the Finance Act.

When you should file anyway

To claim a refund, to carry forward a loss, or as proof of income for a loan or visa.

NRI Taxation

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This answer is general information for NRIs, not tax advice. Tax rates, thresholds and forms change with each Finance Act — please confirm the current position for your own facts, or speak to us, before acting.