New Delhi, April 13 -- For many taxpayers, in FY 2025-26, i.e. from 1 April 2025, to 31 March 2026, their income may fall below the taxable threshold due to deductions, rebates under Section 87A, or lower overall earnings from part-time work, freelancing, or dividends. As the filing season for Assessment Year 2026-27 begins, a common question arises: If no income tax is payable, is filing an Income Tax Return (ITR) still necessary?

The short answer to this question is yes; in several cases, it is beneficial to file nil tax returns. It is not just a simple formality; it is, in fact, a strategic decision that can be of immense benefit for individual citizens in multiple ways beyond taxation.

Be clear, income tax submission and filing is m...