How to File Nil TDS Return ?
29 Mar, 2025
A revised TDS return is filed to correct errors in the original submission, such as incorrect PAN, TDS amount, or missing deductee details. Filing ensures compliance and prevents issues with claiming TDS credits. Errors in TDS returns can lead to tax disputes and unnecessary penalties. If not corrected, deductors may face fines under Section 271H, ranging from ?10,000 to ?1,00,000. It also causes delays and legal scrutiny. A revised return updates records with the Income Tax Department, ensuring accurate tax calculations and smooth processing. Correcting mistakes on time avoids financial and legal complications.
A revised TDS return is a correction statement filed to rectify errors in the original TDS return. It is necessary when there are mistakes in details like PAN, deductee information, TDS amount, or challan details. The revised return ensures that the correct data is updated with the Income Tax Department. This helps deductees claim their TDS credit without issues. Incorrect TDS returns can lead to penalties, delays, or tax disputes. Filing a revised return promptly ensures compliance and avoids unnecessary fines. The return can be filed online through the TRACES portal after corrections are made.
In order to revise the TDS return filing the taxpayer needs to follow the following steps:
Step 1: Get the Consolidated File from TRACES
The first step that a taxpayer needs to do is to log in to the TRACES portal with their valid TNA. Once logged in they need to request the consolidated file of their TDS return that they need to correct. This file will have all the details of the original return. The consolidated file is crucial for correcting the TDS return filing.
Step 2: Open the File in RPU
Once the user gets the consolidated file, they need to install the latest version of the Return Preparation Utility (RPU). It is a free tool that the Income Tax Department has created. Post installation, the applicant needs to open their consolidated file to correct the TDS return filing.
Step 3: Make the Necessary Corrections
After downloading the applicant needs to look for any mistakes in the file. Mistakes can be in the PAN details, TDS amounts, Challan, or maybe in the details of the deductee. The applicant should remember to update all the information accurately and carefully.
Step 4: Validate the Revised File Using FVU
Prior to submission, the applicant must validate their corrected file using the FileValidation Utility(FVU). Doing this before submitting will make sure that the revised file meets the requirement of the Income Tax department. It will also ensure that the file is error free.
Step 5: Uploading the Revised Return on the Income Tax Portal
Post validation, now the applicant has to log in to the Income Tax e-filing portal. Logging in they need to navigate to the TDS section. Now they need to update their validated FVU file. The applicant might need to submit their Digital Signature Certificate(DSC) for authentication. Before submitting the form, the applicant must remember to double-check their details.
Step 6: Get the Acknowledgment and Verify the Changes
The applicant will receive an acknowledgement mail, after submission. This receipt will confirm their submission of the revised TDS return. The applicant should check the acknowledgment form to ensure that the information is updated properly in the system
In order to file a revised TDS return smoothly, you need to gather a few essential documents. Below is the list of the documents that you will need to file a revised TDS return successfully:
1. TAN and PAN Details
For revising their TDS return file, the applicant must provide the Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) and Permanent Account Number (PAN). The TAN identifies the deductor, while the PAN ensures that tax credits are correctly assigned to the deductee.
2. Original TDS Return Acknowledgment Number
Every TDS return filed generates a unique acknowledgment number. This number is necessary to track and update the previously filed return. It ensures that the corrections are linked to the right return.
3. Consolidated TDS File from TRACES
The Consolidated (Conso) File contains all the details of the original TDS return. Before submitting their revised documents, the applicant must download them from the TRACES portal before making any corrections. Without this file, they cannot update the return.
4. Corrected TDS Details
Prior to submission, the applicant should revise the information that requires updating. Below is the list of the information that, they should verify before submitting their revised TDS return filing:
Below is a list of the important points that one should remember while filing a revised TDS return:
Revised Returns Can Be Filed Multiple Times
If errors persist even after a revision, you can file a revised TDS return again. There is no restriction on the number of times you can correct and resubmit the return until all errors are fixed.
Ensure Proper Validation before Submission
Before submitting the revised return, validate the file using the File Validation Utility (FVU). This tool ensures that the corrected return meets the Income Tax Department’s requirements.
Keep a Record of both Original and Revised Returns
The applicant should maintain a copy of both the original and revised TDS returns along with the acknowledgment receipts. This helps in future audits or verifications.
Use the Correct Challan and Deductee Details
Using correct challan and deductee details ensures that the Challan Identification Number (CIN), deductee details, and tax payment information are accurately entered to avoid rejection of the revised return.
Download the Consolidated File from TRACES
Before making corrections, the applicant needs to download the Consolidated File (Conso File) from the TRACES portal. This file contains all details of the originally filed TDS return and is necessary for making corrections.
Corrections Can Be Made Only in Specific Fields
The applicant should know that they will be able to correct only specific fields. They can rectify details like the deductor’s information, the deductee’s PAN, the amount deducted, and challan details. However, you cannot change the TAN (Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number) or the financial year.
Verify the Status of the Original Return
The applicant can only revise a TDS return if the original return has been processed by the Income Tax Department. Check the status of TRACES before proceeding.
Submit the Corrected Return to the E-Filing Portal
Once the revised return is validated using FVU, submit it on the Income Tax e-filing portal under the TDS section.
Use a Digital Signature if Required
If a digital signature was required for the original TDS return, ensure that the revised return is also signed digitally before submission.
Check the Acknowledgment for Confirmation
After submitting the revised return, download the acknowledgment receipt from the e-filing portal and verify if the changes have been correctly updated.
The objective of Revised TDS Return Filing
Filing a revised TDS return is necessary when errors are found in the original return. It ensures accuracy and compliance with tax regulations. Below are the key objectives of filing a revised TDS return:
Correction of Errors in TDS Details
If mistakes are found in PAN details, challan information, or deducted tax amounts, a revised return allows these errors to be fixed. Accurate details prevent mismatches in tax records.
Avoiding Penalties and Legal Issues
Incorrect TDS returns can lead to penalties under Section 271H of the Income Tax Act. Revising the return helps avoid fines ranging from ?10,000 to ?1,00,000.
Ensuring Proper Credit to the Deductee
If the wrong PAN is entered in the original return, the deductee may not receive the tax credit. Filing a revised return ensures that the deducted tax is reflected correctly in Form 26AS.
Compliance with Income Tax Laws
The Income Tax Department mandates that TDS deductions and deposits should be accurately reported. A revised return ensures compliance with tax laws and avoids scrutiny from tax authorities.
Maintaining Accuracy in Financial Records
Any incorrect filing in TDS returns can lead to discrepancies in financial statements. Correcting errors through a revised return helps maintain proper records for audits and business transactions.
Facilitating Smooth Processing of Refunds and Filings
If there are mistakes in TDS returns, it can delay income tax refunds or create issues in tax filings for both deductors and deductees. Revising the return ensures smooth processing and avoids delays.
Conclusion
Hence we can say that filing a revised TDS return is a crucial step in ensuring tax accuracy. It helps in correcting mistakes, avoiding disputes, and maintaining compliance with tax laws. A well-filed revised return prevents financial losses, reduces the risk of penalties, and ensures smooth processing of TDS credits. Keeping proper records of both original and revised returns is essential for future reference. Using the right tools and following the correct procedure makes the process efficient and hassle-free. Timely corrections not only benefit the deductor but also ensure a seamless experience for the deductee. Contact Online Legal India to get assistance in Revised TDS Return filing.