What is a Nil Return and when should you file one?

When the income of an individual taxpayer is below the basic exemption limit in a financial year, the tax liability is zero; thus, such individuals do not have to file any income tax return as per provision of Section 139(1) under the Income-tax Act, 1961. Such individuals do not have to file an income tax return as they do not fall in the tax bracket and get an exemption from filing the return. But if they file ITRs even when their income is below the basic exemption limit, it is termed ‘Nil Return’. Although it is not mandatory to file nil returns, there are many benefits to filing nil returns.

The basic Exemption limit is as follows, depending on the tax regime that you choose.

1. The Old Tax Regime basic exemption is as follows
   1. Rs 2,50,000 for age less than 60 years
   2. Rs 3,00,000 for ages between 60 - 80 years
   3. Rs 5,00,000 for ages more than 80 years
2. New Tax Regime - Rs 3,00,000 is the basic exemption limit.

What’s a nil return?

A nil income tax return is filed to show the Income Tax Department that you fall below the taxable income and therefore did not pay taxes during the year. A nil return is an ITR filed specifically to declare to the Income Tax department that no taxes have been paid in the respective financial year. Nil returns can be filed only when the income is below the exemption limit. As per the Income Tax Act, it is not mandatory for individuals earning less than the basic exemption limit to file an ITR. Thus, individuals filing nil returns file it in their interest.

When should I file a Nil Return?

To show income tax return as proof of income

• You are just starting out, and your total income falls below the taxable limit but would like to keep a record. There are several instances where income tax serves as proof, say when you are applying for a visa or while getting your passport made.
• You were filing your income tax returns for many years and fell into the ‘below taxable limit’ this year. This is to continue maintaining a record and also preventative measures in the event of scrutiny from the Income Tax Department.

To claim a refund

Your total income without taking deductions into account could be above the taxable limit, but deductions might be below the minimum exemption limit. If you paid more in taxes than you needed to in the form of TDS, you must file an income tax return to claim a refund.

Can I go without filing a Nil Return?

Filing income tax returns is mandatory for those whose total income is more than the basic exemption limit. We recommend that you file your income tax return, even though it is not mandatory if your total income isn’t over the basic exemption limit, to enjoy the above benefits.

How do I fill up a Nil Return online?

Filing a nil return is no different from filing a regular income tax return.

• Enter your income details and deductions. Income tax is computed, and you will be shown that you have no tax due.
• Submit your return to the Income Tax Department. E Verify your ITR to complete the e-filing process.

Click here to read our guide to e-filing.

Benefits of filing Nil Returns

• ITR may be required for applying for a visa.
• Passport applications accept Nil ITR as valid proof of address.
• ITR is required for loan applications as supporting evidence to ascertain eligibility.
• Banks may deduct TDS on interest on deposits. The TDS refund can be claimed by filing nil ITR.
• A few organizations may deduct the TDS of people working as consultants or freelancers while disbursing their payment. They need to file nil ITR to claim a TDS refund when they don’t fall in the tax bracket.
• Filing ITR is mandatory for individuals who own a foreign asset even when their income is below the threshold.
• It is possible to carry forward losses incurred in the stock market by filing nil ITR when the income is below the threshold.
• It is mandatory to file ITR for the following categories -
  • If you have deposited an amount or aggregate of the amounts exceeding one crore rupees in one or more current accounts maintained with a banking company or a cooperative bank; or
  • If you have incurred expenditure of an amount or aggregate of the amounts exceeding two lakh rupees for himself or any other person for travel to a foreign country; or
  • If you have incurred expenditure of an amount or aggregate of the amounts exceeding one lakh rupees towards consumption of electricity

Due date to file Nil Income tax Return

Individuals must file a nil return before 31st July of the Assessment Year. The due date for filing a nil ITR is the same as a regular return. However, if the nil return is filed after the due date, it will be considered a belated return. In case of belated filing of nil returns, no late filing fees will be charged.