New Delhi, July 30 -- Income tax notices and compliance-related issues can often create unnecessary panic and confusion among taxpayers, especially when different provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961, apply.

One such notice is issued under Section 139(9), which deals with defective income tax returns. Understanding what the notice means and responding within the prescribed timeline is crucial, as failure to do so could result in the return being treated as invalid.

Tax experts say taxpayers should first understand the nature of the defect rather than panic, as timely action can help avoid unnecessary legal and compliance complications.

Mihir Tanna, Associate Director (Direct Tax) at S K Patodia & Associates LLP, explained that Sectio...