ITR-1, also called Sahaj, is the simplest income tax return form in India. ITR 1 filing is designed specifically for individuals with straightforward income sources. If you're a salaried employee with income up to Rs. 50 lakhs, this form is likely meant for you. Its simplified structure makes self-filing accessible even for first-time taxpayers.
This comprehensive guide covers everything about ITR 1 salaried employees need to know. You'll learn the complete ITR 1 eligibility criteria and understand which documents required for ITR 1 filing. Whether you're filing for the first time or want to ensure accuracy, this article provides step-by-step guidance.
ITR 1 Eligibility Criteria: Who Can File?
Understanding ITR 1 eligibility criteria is crucial before beginning the filing process. The Income Tax Act specifies clear conditions for ITR-1 applicability.
| Eligible If | Condition / Limit |
| Resident individual (ordinary resident) | Must be resident in India for tax purposes |
| Total income up to limit | Rs. 50 lakhs maximum |
| Income from salary/pension | Allowed, including family pension |
| One house property income | Self-occupied or let-out (one property only) |
| Other sources income | Interest, dividends, family pension (no lottery/horse racing) |
| Agricultural income | Up to Rs. 5,000 only |
ITR-1 is NOT Applicable When:
• You have capital gains from shares, mutual funds, or property sale
• You have business or professional income
• You own more than one house property
• You are a director in a company or hold unlisted shares
• You are NRI or RNOR
• You have foreign income or foreign assets
Documents Required for ITR 1: Complete Checklist
Gathering the right documents required for ITR 1 ensures smooth filing. Prepare these before you start.
| Document | Purpose / Details |
| PAN Card | Primary identification, must be linked with Aadhaar |
| Aadhaar Card | Required for e-verification via OTP |
| Form 16 | TDS certificate from employer showing salary and deductions |
| Form 16A | TDS on interest, rent, or other non-salary income |
| Form 26AS / AIS | Tax credit statement, verify all TDS entries match |
| Bank Interest Certificates | Savings, FD, RD interest details from all bank accounts |
| Investment Proofs | 80C (PPF, ELSS, LIC), 80D (health insurance), 80E (education loan) |
| Rent Receipts / Agreement | If claiming HRA exemption, include landlord PAN if rent exceeds Rs. 1 lakh |
| Home Loan Statement | Principal (80C) and interest (Section 24) breakup from bank |
| Bank Account Details | Pre-validated account for refund, all accounts held during year |
ITR 1 Salaried Employees: Understanding the Structure
ITR 1 salaried employees use this form most frequently. Check CBDT guidelines for the latest form structure. ITR-1 has five main parts.
Part A: General Information
- Personal details: Name, PAN, Aadhaar, address
- Filing status: Original or revised return
- Bank account details: For refund credit
Part B: Gross Total Income
- B1: Income from salary (auto-populated from Form 16)
- B2: Income from house property (rental income minus deductions)
- B3: Income from other sources (interest, dividends, family pension)
Part C: Deductions and Taxable Income
- Chapter VI-A deductions: 80C, 80D, 80E, 80G, etc.
- Total taxable income calculation
Part D: Tax Computation
- Tax on total income at applicable slab rates
- Rebate under Section 87A if applicable
- Surcharge and cess calculation
Part E: Tax Paid and Verification
- TDS details: Employer, banks, others
- Advance tax and self-assessment tax paid
- Refund due or tax payable calculation
ITR 1 Filing: Step-by-Step Process
Complete ITR 1 filing online through the official portal. The process is straightforward if documents are ready.
Step 1: Login to Portal
Visit Income Tax e-Filing Portal. Login with PAN and password. New users must register first.
Step 2: Select ITR-1 and Assessment Year
Navigate to e-File > Income Tax Returns > File Income Tax Return. Choose assessment year and select ITR-1.
Step 3: Choose Filing Mode
Select online mode for direct filing or offline mode to upload JSON. Online mode pre-fills data from Form 26AS.
Step 4: Verify Pre-filled Data
Review auto-populated salary, TDS, and bank details. Cross-check with Form 16 and Form 26AS. Correct any discrepancies.
Step 5: Enter Additional Income and Deductions
Add interest income, house property details, and claim deductions under Chapter VI-A with investment proofs.
Step 6: Review and Submit
Verify tax computation. Pay any outstanding tax via challan. Submit the return.
Step 7: E-Verify
Complete e-verification within 30 days via Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or EVC. Return remains invalid without verification.
For professional assistance, consider Income Tax Return Filing services or expert CA-Assisted ITR support.
Conclusion: File Accurately, File On Time
ITR 1 filing is the most common return type in India for good reason. Its simplified structure makes compliance easy for ITR 1 salaried employees and pensioners with straightforward income.
Verify your ITR 1 eligibility criteria before starting. Gather all documents required for ITR 1 in advance. Cross-check pre-filled data carefully, claim all eligible deductions, and e-verify promptly. Timely, accurate filing avoids notices, ensures quick refunds, and keeps your tax record clean. Start early, file right.
