ITR Refund Delay 2025: Why Refunds Are Stuck, How to Check Status and Helpline Number Explained

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by

Himanshu
in , ,

Filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) on time is one of the most important financial responsibilities for taxpayers in India. However, one of the most common concerns among individuals after filing is the delay in receiving the income tax refund. In 2025, thousands of taxpayers are facing delays due to a reported backlog in processing refunds. Many users have confirmed that even after their ITR status shows as “processed,” the refund has not yet been credited to their bank accounts.

If you are facing a similar issue, here is a complete guide to understand why refunds are delayed, how to check the status, and the helpline number you can call: 1800-103-0025.

Why is Your ITR Refund Delayed in 2025?

The Income Tax Department processes millions of ITRs every year. While refunds are usually issued within 20 to 45 days of filing, delays can occur due to several reasons:

  1. Backlog of Processing – Reports suggest that there is currently a backlog due to high filing volumes in July and August 2025.
  2. Bank Account Verification – Refunds are only credited to bank accounts that are pre-validated and linked to PAN.
  3. Mismatch in Details – Even small mismatches in PAN, Aadhaar, or bank details may cause delays.
  4. Outstanding Demand – If you have pending tax dues from previous years, the refund may be adjusted.
  5. Manual Scrutiny Cases – In some cases, ITRs are selected for detailed checks, delaying refunds.

Official Helpline for Refund Status

If your refund has not yet been received, you can call the Income Tax Refund Helpline at 1800-103-0025 (toll-free).

  • Users who contacted this number have reported that refunds are indeed pending due to backlog.
  • The customer care executives confirm whether your refund is processed, under review, or delayed.
  • In many cases, taxpayers were assured that the refund will be credited in the coming weeks once the backlog is cleared.

How to Check ITR Refund Status Online

Even though delays are common in 2025, you can track your refund status easily. Here is the process:

StepAction to TakeExpected Result
1Visit the Income Tax e-Filing portal and log in using PAN & passwordAccess your account dashboard
2Go to “View Returns / Forms” sectionCheck the latest filed ITR
3Click on the ITR Status linkSee whether your ITR is processed or pending
4If processed, check refund status in the Refund/Demand Status tabShows if refund issued, credited, or under processing
5If refund issued but not receivedCross-check with your bank account statement
6If refund pendingCall 1800-103-0025 for clarification

Figures and Facts on ITR Refunds

  • In the financial year 2024-25, more than 7.5 crore ITRs were filed across India.
  • Nearly 3.2 crore taxpayers are eligible for refunds this year.
  • Average refund amount ranges between ₹12,000 – ₹45,000 for salaried individuals.
  • Refunds above ₹50,000 generally take longer due to additional verification.
  • Around 15-18% of refunds in 2025 are reported as delayed due to system backlogs.

What to Do If Refund is Still Pending?

If your refund has not been credited even after 2-3 months, follow these steps:

  1. Check ITR Processing Status – Confirm if your return is processed.
  2. Verify Bank Account – Ensure your account is pre-validated and linked to PAN.
  3. Check for Outstanding Tax Demand – Log in to see if past dues are adjusted.
  4. Contact Helpline (1800-103-0025) – Speak to officials for clarification.
  5. Raise a Grievance – Use the Income Tax e-Nivaran Portal to raise a complaint.
  6. Wait for Processing – If backlog is the reason, refunds may take up to 90 days.

Quick Tips to Avoid Refund Delays

  • Always file ITR before the deadline to avoid end-of-season rush.
  • Ensure your PAN and Aadhaar are linked.
  • Use a single primary bank account for refunds and validate it.
  • Double-check your income details, deductions, and TDS entries.
  • Respond quickly if the IT Department sends any query or notice.

Conclusion

In 2025, delays in ITR refunds are primarily due to the high volume of returns and backlog in processing. If you have not received your refund yet, don’t panic. Start by checking your refund status on the Income Tax portal and, if needed, call the official helpline 1800-103-0025. Most refunds are delayed but not denied, and taxpayers can expect the amounts to be credited in the coming weeks once the backlog clears.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available facts and taxpayer experiences. It does not provide professional tax advice. Taxpayers are advised to check the official Income Tax portal or contact the helpline for accurate and updated information regarding refunds.