When to Expect Your Income Tax Refund After Filing for AY 2026-27

More than 59 crore income-tax returns were lodged before the July 31 deadline for Assessment Year 2026-27, according to the Income Tax Department’s announcement on X. Once a return is e-verified, the department begins a refund process that usually takes four to five weeks, though it may extend to six weeks if issues are detected. Chartered accountant Abhishek Soni explained that filers who submitted their returns in the final week of July can anticipate credit of any excess tax between mid-August and mid-September, assuming their returns are error-free.

Taxpayers are advised to check their email and the e-filing portal for any discrepancy notices if refunds are delayed. The refund amount reflects taxes paid through TDS, TCS, advance tax or self-assessment that exceed the final liability after deductions and exemptions are applied.