Income Tax: Do You Need an Expert to File Your ITR? Pros and Cons Explained

With fewer than 40 days remaining before the September 15 deadline to file your Income Tax Return (ITR) for FY 2024-25, taxpayers are in full swing gathering necessary documents and crunching numbers. Some are working closely with their chartered accountant or tax consultant, while others are taking the DIY (Do It Yourself) route. The big question — is it better to file your own return or hire a professional? Let’s break it down.

The DIY Approach to ITR Filing

If you have only one source of income — for example, a fixed salary — and minimal complexities, filing your own ITR can be straightforward. The Income Tax Department’s portal offers step-by-step assistance and pre-filled data from Form 16, Form 26AS, and AIS.

Pros of DIY Filing:

• Cost-effective – No consultancy charges.
• Learning experience – Helps you understand your finances better.
• Full control – You directly manage every detail of your tax return.

Cons of DIY Filing:

• Risk of errors – Incorrect details or missed deductions can lead to notices or penalties.
• Time-consuming – Gathering documents, selecting the correct ITR form, and verifying calculations require effort.
• Limited guidance – The portal won’t alert you about better tax-saving options or exemptions you may have missed.

Filing ITR with an Expert

Engaging a tax professional or CA ensures accuracy and compliance. This is particularly important if you have:

• Multiple income sources (salary, business, rental, capital gains)
• Foreign income or assets
• Business or professional income requiring audits
• Complex deductions under various sections of the Income Tax Act

Pros of Hiring an Expert:

• Error-free filing – Professionals ensure compliance with the latest rules.
• Maximized tax savings – Expert advice on deductions and exemptions.
• Peace of mind – Avoiding errors reduces the risk of notices from the Income Tax Department.

Cons of Hiring an Expert:

• Additional cost – Consultancy fees vary depending on complexity.
• Dependency – You rely on the professional’s timelines and availability.

Which Option Should You Choose?

• If your return is simple (single salary income, no complex deductions), DIY filing is perfectly fine.
• If your return is complex or you’re unsure about the rules, hiring an expert can save you both time and stress.

Remember — the deadline is September 15, 2025, so whichever method you choose, don’t wait until the last moment.

File with Global Taxman India Ltd for Hassle-Free ITR Filing

At Global Taxman India Ltd, we combine expertise with speed to ensure 100% accurate and timely ITR filing. Whether you’re an individual, professional, or business owner, our team ensures you get the maximum deductions and remain fully compliant.

📞 Call us today: +91 9811099550, 9911870850
🌐 Visit: www.globaltaxmanindia.com