Most taxpayers have already received their Income Tax Return (ITR) refunds, but a noticeable number are still waiting. When a refund fails to reach your bank account, you don’t have to wait indefinitely — you can request a reissue through the e-filing portal. Before you submit a reissue request, it’s important to confirm your bank details and follow the correct steps to speed up the process.
Why refunds sometimes fail
- Incorrect bank account number — a digit error or truncated number can block credit.
- Closed or dormant account — banks return credits to the tax department if the account is not operational.
- Name mismatch — the name on the tax records or PAN may not match the bank account holder’s name.
- IFSC or branch errors — wrong IFSC codes can prevent electronic clearing.
- Bank-side rejection — banks occasionally reject credits due to internal checks or limits.
How to check whether your refund failed
Start by logging into the e-filing portal and checking the refund status section. The portal typically shows whether the refund was credited, rejected, or under process. You may also receive an intimation via email or SMS if a refund was returned by the bank.
Requesting a refund reissue via the e-filing portal
If you see that a refund was returned or failed, follow these general steps to request a reissue:
- Log in to the e-filing portal with your credentials.
- Navigate to the refund or refund status section and locate the failed refund entry.
- Select the option to request a reissue or refund re-credit.
- Carefully enter or confirm your bank details. If updating the account, make sure the new account is active and can receive electronic credits.
- Upload any requested documents or proofs (for example, a cancelled cheque or bank passbook page, if the portal asks for it).
- Submit the request and note the acknowledgement or reference number for future tracking.
What bank details to verify
- Account number — check each digit carefully.
- IFSC code — ensure the correct alphanumeric code for the branch.
- Account type — savings or current as applicable.
- Account holder name — it should match the name linked to your PAN or tax records.
Documents to keep ready
- PAN and ITR acknowledgement (or ITR-V, if applicable).
- Bank passbook page or a cancelled cheque bearing the account number and IFSC.
- Any portal acknowledgement or intimation showing the refund status.
Timeline and what to expect after requesting reissue
Once you file the reissue request, the tax department will process it and resend the refund to the bank. This can take a few weeks, depending on processing load and bank turnaround times. Keep the acknowledgement number and check the portal for status updates. The bank may also notify you by SMS or email when the refund is credited.
Tips to avoid future refund failures
- Pre‑validate your bank account on the e-filing portal, if the option is available.
- Double-check details before filing the ITR — a careful review can prevent most return-to-sender cases.
- Use an active, regular savings account where your name and PAN match the bank records.
- Update your bank records promptly if you change accounts, and make sure the new account is ready to receive electronic credits.
If your refund has failed, act promptly: verify your bank details on the e-filing portal, submit a reissue request with supporting documents, and track the status through the portal. Proper preparation and timely action will usually resolve most refund issues without the need for further escalation.