What is ITR-1 (SAHAJ)?
ITR-1, also known as SAHAJ, is the simplest Income Tax Return form designed for resident individuals with straightforward income sources. It is the most commonly filed ITR in India and is applicable to salaried employees, pensioners, and individuals with basic interest income.
ITR-1 cannot be filed by companies, HUFs, NRIs, or individuals with business income, capital gains, or agricultural income exceeding ₹5,000.
Who Should File ITR-1?
| Eligible | Not Eligible (Cannot use ITR-1) |
|---|
| Resident individuals with salary / pension income | Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) — must use ITR-2 |
| Income from one house property (single property) | Directors of companies or shareholders of unlisted companies |
| Interest income from savings, FD, or post office | Individuals with capital gains (shares, property, mutual funds) |
| Family pension income | Individuals with business or professional income |
| Agricultural income up to ₹5,000 | Agricultural income exceeding ₹5,000 |
| Total income not exceeding ₹50 Lakh | Total income exceeding ₹50 Lakh |
Key Deductions Claimable in ITR-1
- Section 80C — PPF, ELSS, LIC, EPF, home loan principal (up to ₹1.5 Lakh)
- Section 80D — Health insurance premiums
- Section 80G — Donations to charitable organizations
- Section 80TTA/80TTB — Interest on savings accounts (₹10,000 / ₹50,000 for senior citizens)
- Standard Deduction — ₹50,000 for salaried individuals
- HRA Exemption — House Rent Allowance (if not opted for new regime)
Due Date for Filing ITR-1
| Category | Due Date |
|---|
| Salaried individuals (no audit required) | 31st July of the Assessment Year |
| Belated Return (with penalty) | 31st December of the Assessment Year |
Penalty for Late Filing: ₹5,000 if filed after 31st July (₹1,000 if total income is below ₹5 Lakh). Interest at 1% per month under Section 234A also applies on outstanding tax.
