New Delhi, June 20 -- Since the deadline for filing income tax returns (ITRs) is still some time away, June 30 may not seem like an important date for taxpayers. However, for returns filed during FY 2025-26, this is the last date by which the income tax department can issue a scrutiny notice under Section 143(2).

A 'scrutiny assessment' is initiated when the tax department wants to verify certain details in a return, such as income reported, deductions claimed or specific transactions. Receiving such a notice does not necessarily mean the taxpayer has done anything wrong.

It simply means the tax department is seeking additional information before completing its assessment. Hence, taxpayers should carefully review the notice and be prepa...