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ITR filing 2026: How to report capital gains from shares, mutual funds and ETFs to avoid tax notices
Taxpayers must accurately report capital gains from shares, mutual funds, and ETFs while filing the ITR for AY 2026-27. It is important to choose the correct ITR form, classify gains, reconcile investment records, and report only realised gains to avoid discrepancies and scrutiny.
Does Indias DIY mutual fund boom needs structured assistance?
Over 5-6 crore Indians now invest in mutual funds, thanks to digital platforms. While ease of access has increased, first-time investors face complexities in asset allocation. Future investing will require curated advice and structured assistance to ensure successful long-term portfolios.
Mid-cap funds aim to outperform their benchmark through active management, but not all succeed. There are currently eight mid-cap funds with a negative alpha, with Taurus Mid Cap Fund having the lowest alpha of -7.20.
EPFO: Submitted a claim? Here's what the status message means and timeline for settlement process
Employees' Provident Fund Organisation: Today we look at how much time EPF claims take to be settled, what the status message means, and what subscribers can do to rectify any delays and complete the process.
A financial master sheet won't make you richerbut it could save your family from economic chaos
A financial master sheet is a single document that records the family's financial and administrative details, showing what assets exist, where they are held, and where supporting documents are stored.
Large-cap funds have seen their alpha generation decline over the years compared with the Nifty 50 TRI. While funds outperformed strongly during 2000-2009, the advantage narrowed in the following decade and turned negative after 2020.
The Maharashtra government has approved incentive allowance equivalent to 30% of basic pay for police officers and personnel in the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) under the 7th central pay commission.
The government says the income tax e-filing portal can process up to 1 crore ITRs a day, but experts say taxpayers should not mistake higher capacity for a risk-free last-day filing experience. Here's why they don't expect an extension yet, and why waiting until July 31 could still be costly.
Active large-cap funds may not provide as much diversification as many investors expect. A study shows their sector allocations and stock portfolios closely mirror the Nifty 50, with the overlap becoming even higher among the largest funds.
The income tax return filing season is nearing its end, with over 5 crore returns submitted. A significant question on the ITR form is causing confusion. Here's how to respond to it.
DA hike: West Bengal state government employees will receive their 20% dearness allowance increase and salaries for October before Durga Puja festivities, according to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.
EPF subscribers are facing issues with overlapping employment records and missing data on the EPFO portal after its recent system migration. Lawyers explain whether employers can reject your job application solely due to EPFO portal error.
After filing ITR, taxpayers may receive notices due to mismatches in income, incorrect ITR forms, pending tax demands or any scrutiny by the Income Tax Department. Understanding why these notices are issued and how to avoid them can help ensure timely compliance and prevent penalties.
These 4 flexicap mutual funds delivered single-digit returns in 3 years. Check details
Four flexi cap mutual funds delivered single-digit returns over the last three years, while one posted a marginal negative return, according to ETWealth. In contrast, the top-performing flexi cap funds generated returns of up to 19.8% during the same period.
Section 10(14)(i) of the Income Tax Act offers exemptions on specific salary allowances, but only for genuine official expenses. Understand eligibility rules, documentation requirements, common mistakes and practical tips to claim tax benefits correctly while avoiding interest and penalties.
Many salaried taxpayers assume ITR-1 is the correct form, but additional income or a job change could require a different return. Experts explain the key checks to complete before filing your income tax return.
Received an income tax notice under Section 139(9)? Here's what it means and what to do
A Section 139(9) defective return notice and other income tax notices require timely action to avoid compliance issues. Experts explain how taxpayers should respond to Sections 139(9), 143(1), 142(1) and 148 notices, helping protect tax benefits and prevent unnecessary complications.
Section 10 of the Income-tax Act: Misusing these provisions to save tax may result in a 200% penalty
With the ITR deadline approaching, Section 10(14)(i) offers tax-saving potential for salaried employees. However, misuse can lead to scrutiny and hefty penalties. Experts explain eligibility, rules and consequences of false claims.
Planning to withdraw from your mutual fund SIP? Here's the impact on your financial goals
Withdrawing money from your mutual fund SIP can significantly delay your financial goals by hampering the power of compounding. Early withdrawals cause maximum damage to your long-term wealth creation. Here is how pulling out funds at different stages impacts your timeline to build a target corpus of Rs 1 crore.
Tracking error explained: What every passive investor should know
Passive funds aim to mirror benchmark returns, but market frictions create gaps. Here's how tracking error differs from tracking difference, why it occurs, and what investors should watch.
Non-Resident External (NRE) fixed deposit rates from DCB Bank, YES Bank, RBL and other banks offer NRIs returns of up to 7.50%. Compare interest rates, tax benefits, repatriation rules and key factors before investing in Indian NRE term deposits.
What is ITR-BN? CBDT notifies new income tax return form; check eligibility and filing details
The CBDT has introduced the ITR-BN form for block assessments from search and seizure cases. Effective from April 1, 2026, it applies only to taxpayers receiving such notices, aiming to streamline reporting of undisclosed income. Details here.
Bond SIPs: convenience, higher yields, and hidden risks
Bond SIPs make investing in direct bonds easier through automated monthly purchases. But they don't eliminate credit risk. Here's what investors should know.
Arbitrage funds have emerged as the best-performing hybrid mutual fund category in 2026 so far, outperforming their peers amid volatile equity markets. Here's why the category is leading and the schemes that have delivered the highest returns over one and three years.
Looking for midcap mutual funds in July 2026? Here are 5 funds to consider
ETMutualFunds shortlisted five top midcap mutual funds based on rolling returns, consistency, downside risk, outperformance and asset size, highlighting options suitable for investors with high risk tolerance and long-term horizons.
International funds offered excellent returns over the past year, outperforming domestic options. However, fresh investments are currently restricted due to regulatory limits. Experts suggest alternatives like LRS platforms and GIFT City funds for global exposure. Diversified global ETFs tracking broad indices are recommended for new investors. Investors should maintain international allocation for diversification and risk-adjusted returns.
ITR due date extension 2026 LIVE: Who must file tax return even if their income is not taxable?
ITR Due Date Extension 2026 LIVE: The due date to file ITR is tomorrow. The government extended the deadline last year due to technical glitches, but a similar relief is unlikely this time, experts have repeatedly warned.
A Reddit user shared that their mother sold inherited property for 50 lakh in cash to a builder, lacking a banking trail. Experts warn of possible penalties and explain ITR filing rules.
Best medium to long duration funds to invest in July 2026
Conservative investors often avoid medium to long duration debt funds due to their inherent risks. These funds invest in longer-term instruments, making them sensitive to interest rate fluctuations. Even small rate increases can cause significant volatility and potential investor losses. Investors with a higher risk tolerance and long horizon can consider these schemes. Competent advisors can guide investors aware of the associated extra risks.
Gold and silver prices today, 30 July: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
The Centre has clarified that the 8th Pay Commission is not required to keep the government informed about its deliberations, including proposals on the fitment factor. It also declined to comment on employee demands, saying the Commission will determine its own procedure.
With the July 31 ITR filing deadline approaching, the Income Tax Department says over 5 crore returns have already been filed for AY 2026-27. Here's who should file ITR-1, who needs ITR-2, and why you shouldn't wait until the last minute.
The 8th Pay Commission may consider higher annual increments for central government employees as proposed by several prominent unions. A 5% increment scenario shows Level 1 basic pay rising from 18,000 per month to around 24,200 per month in five years.
ITR filing deadline: Can freelancers declare earnings as business income? Tax experts explain
Freelance income cannot always be reported as business income in ITR filings. Here is when earnings qualify as business income, salary, or other sources; common filing mistakes; presumptive taxation rules; and expert tips to avoid tax notices and ensure compliance before the 31 July deadline.
ITR filing 2026: Why 31 July is not the deadline for all salaried taxpayers and who gets more time
The 31 July ITR filing deadline may not apply to all salaried taxpayers. The applicable due date depends on the taxpayers overall income profile, ITR form, and audit requirements. Those with business or professional income may get additional time.
Large & mid-cap funds have historically delivered a balance between returns and volatility. Over the past 5 years, the benchmark index gave 14% returns, compared with 10% for large-caps and 18% for mid-caps.
Despite varying investment strategies, some small-cap stocks are common across mutual fund portfolios. The latest analysis reveals the 10 most widely held small-cap stocks, with PNB Housing Finance featuring in 146 schemes, followed by Crompton Greaves and RBL Bank.
Taxpayers who filed their ITR in May or June should revisit their return before the 31 July deadline. Checking e-verification status, AIS, TIS, Form 26AS, TDS credits, bank details and reported income can help avoid errors and refund delays.
Hidden risks of UPI Autopay: Nykaa AVPs LinkedIn post sparks debate about free trials
Lokesh Ahuja from Nykaa shared a cautionary tale about hidden AutoPay mandates after teaching his mother how to make UPI payments. He emphasises the importance of digital literacy.
A Chennai taxpayer faced a 1.92 lakh penalty after her tax consultant made errors in the ITR filing. ITAT Chennai waived the penalty, ruling that a genuine mistake by a tax professional cannot be treated as misreporting of income under Section 270A.
Would your family know how to access your wealth in an emergency?
A single, regularly updated financial master sheet can organize scattered accounts, key legal documents, and vital contacts before a crisis hits.
An ET analysis of 546 equity mutual funds reveals that Pharma & Healthcare funds delivered the highest 5-year SIP returns at 18.2%. While sectoral funds led performance, flexicap and largecap funds offered steady returns, making them ideal core portfolio options for long-term investors.
SIPs help reduce entry-timing risk through rupee-cost averaging but cannot shield investors from valuation, liquidity, concentration or fund-selection risks. Investors should not mistake SIPs for a complete risk-management strategy.
ITR filing deadline: After 4 extensions in last 5 years, why AY 2026-27 may not get extra time
As the 31 July deadline for filing ITR approaches, taxpayers hope for an extension like in previous years. Here's why AY 2026-27 is different for tax filing.
Expecting an income tax refund this year? Filing your ITR is only half the job. Simple mistakes like an unvalidated bank account, TDS mismatch or pending tax demand can delay your refund even after the return is processed.
FD rates in July 2026: Small finance banks offer up to 8.10%; compare returns from 7 leading lenders
July 2026 FD rates show small finance banks offering up to 8.10% interest, ahead of leading private and public sector banks. Compare FD rates, tenures and key investment factors across seven major lenders before booking a fixed deposit to secure better returns.
These 5 smallcap mutual funds rewarded investors with over 27% returns in 3 years. Check details
Five smallcap mutual funds delivered annualized returns of 20.6%-26% over three years, led by Bandhan Small Cap Fund, while investors should prioritize risk appetite, goals, and investment horizon over past performance.
52 equity mutual funds delivered over 100% returns in 5 years. Are any in your portfolio?
Around 52 equity mutual funds have delivered absolute returns of over 100% in the past five years, according to an ETMutualFunds analysis. Mid-cap funds dominated the top performers, led by Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund with a 169.84% return. The analysis covered 212 regular-plan, growth-option equity funds, excluding sectoral and thematic schemes, with all generating double-digit returns.
How to make the most of flexible health benefits in employer plans
Healthcare needs aren't staticthey change with age, family responsibilities and personal circumstances. A 28-year-old navigating burnout, a 32-year-old planning a family, and a 45-year-old supporting ageing parents all need very different forms of care.
EPS 2026: EPS 1995 and EFPS 1971 beneficiaries will keep receiving pension under new scheme
Government clarified that EPS 1995 and EFPS 1971 beneficiaries will continue to receive pensions under EPS 2026. Pension calculation, contribution rates and eligibility remain unchanged, while the new scheme introduces faster digital claim processing and electronic pension disbursement.
Inherited shares, mutual funds or bonds? NRIs should follow these steps to claim them in India
NRIs inheriting financial assets in India often face delays due to missing documents, KYC issues and nomination gaps. Experts explain the steps, paperwork and common mistakes that can help ensure a smoother transmission process.
Can a Rs 31,000 monthly SIP help you build a Rs 10 crore corpus? Expert explains
Building a 10 crore corpus over 20 years requires more than regular SIP investments. Financial planners suggest reviewing portfolios periodically, increasing SIP contributions with income growth, and maintaining the right asset allocation to maximise compounding benefits.
Sebi reopens the PMS rulebook: what it changes for investors and investment industry
Sebi's proposed MF-only PMS lowers the investment threshold to 25 lakh, opening customized mutual fund portfolios to more investors.
Cash, property, or gifts over 50,000 from non-relatives are taxable, but relief options also exist for residents, which can reduce tax liability significantly or to zero. Details here.
Income tax filing deadline 2026 LIVE Updates: Who needs to submit their returns by 31 July?
Income tax filing deadline 2026 LIVE Updates: The due date to file ITR is around the corner, and more than 4.3 crore ITRs have already been filed so far. Here's everything you need to know about the filing process, deadline information, e-filing portal status and other such developments.
Gold and silver prices today, 29 July: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
Best gilt mutual funds to invest in July 2026
Gilt funds are recommended for aggressive debt investors expecting RBI rate cuts. These funds offer potential double-digit returns when interest rates begin to fall. Gilt funds invest in government securities, carrying no credit risk but high interest rate sensitivity. Investors should possess a long-term horizon and understand interest rate cycles before investing. Nippon India Gilt Fund and Bandhan Gilt Fund are among the recommended schemes.
ULIP income in ITR for AY 2026-27: Exemption rules, capital gains reporting, correct form choice and filing tips ahead of 31 July deadline.
Banks collected over 26,170 crore from customers as minimum balance penalties between FY23 and FY26, according to a Rajya Sabha reply. While most public sector banks have now scrapped such charges on savings accounts, private lenders continue to collect thousands of crores annually.
ITR filing 2026: Where to file return online other than the tax portal; know the charges
As the ITR filing deadline approaches, taxpayers can use various fintech platforms for online submissions. These services aim to simplify the process, with expert assistance available. Details here.
Will using ethanol-blended petrol affect your car insurance? Here's what experts say
The government's push for E20 petrol has left many car owners wondering whether using ethanol-blended fuel could affect their motor insurance. Here's what insurance experts say about claim validity, engine damage and common misconceptions.
ITR filing deadline in 2 days: Tax experts explain how you can file returns in just 10 minutes
The income tax return filing deadline is approaching, with only two days left. Tax experts explain how taxpayers can complete ITR filing quickly using the correct forms and documents, pre-filled data and e-verification before 31 July.
The Finance Ministry has clarified in Parliament that the 8th Pay Commission is not required to share regular progress updates with the Centre. The Commission has autonomy, may determine its own procedures under the ToR, and will submit its final recommendations after 18 months, the minister said.
Why child-free couples may need morenot lessfor retirement
Conventional wisdom says child-free couples need a smaller retirement corpus. In reality, longer retirements, caregiving costs and the absence of a family safety net can make financial planning more demanding.
Sebi proposes simplified rules, lower investment floor for mutual fund PMS
Sebi has proposed lowering the minimum investment for mutual fund-only portfolio management services. The regulator suggests reducing this threshold from Rs 50 lakh down to Rs 25 lakh. This move aims to make these services more accessible to a wider investor base. Additionally, Sebi is simplifying other requirements for these portfolio managers. These proposed changes are expected to impact the investment landscape significantly.
Can you change the income tax regime while filing ITR? Here's what taxpayers should know
Salaried taxpayers can switch between the old and new tax regimes while filing their ITR, regardless of the regime used by their employer for TDS. However, rules differ for those with business income. Understanding the flexibility and tax impact can help taxpayers make an informed choice.
EPF Scheme 2026: Got married? Your past PF nomination is now invalid key FAQs answered
Your earlier EPF nomination becomes invalid once you get married. Filing a fresh nomination ensures your PF benefits are paid to the intended beneficiaries without unnecessary delays or legal complications.
Multi-asset allocation funds topped the hybrid category, recording 70,819 crore in net inflows in 12 months. These funds help diversify across equities, debt, gold, and other assets. Investors should evaluate allocation strategy, diversification, and capture ratios before investing.
Delhi Lakshmi Yojana: 2,500 monthly assistance announced; Check eligibility, rules and documents
The Delhi government has launched the 'Delhi Lakshmi Yojana', providing eligible women with monthly financial assistance of 2,500, of which 1,500 will go into a locked savings account. The initiative aims to empower women financially and support family stability.
I work remotely in India for a US firm. Can I avoid Indian tax if I'm paid in the US?
Many tech professionals moving back home assume receiving dollars in a foreign account keeps their income out of local jurisdictionhere is how tax residency rules actually treat global earnings.
Delhi HC orders Paytm Payments Bank to be wound up: What happens to your Paytm wallet, UPI now?
The Delhi High Court ordered the winding up of Paytm Payments Bank Ltd due to non-compliance with regulations.
New vs old regime: Income tax slab rates for FY26 know how slab-wise tax calculation works
Taxpayers should compare the new and old tax regimes before filing their ITR for FY26. Since India follows a slab-based tax system, only the portion of income falling within each tax slab is taxed at the applicable rate. Understanding this helps taxpayers estimate tax liability more accurately.
Need regular income from mutual funds? Check these top-performing hybrid funds over 3 years
Five conservative hybrid mutual funds delivered attractive Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) returns over a three-year period, according to an ET Wealth report. Parag Parikh Conservative Hybrid Fund led the category among listed schemes with a 10.9% return, followed by HSBC, ICICI Prudential, DSP, and SBI schemes.
Form 16 makes return filing easier, but it is not the only document required. By reconciling salary records with Form 26AS, AIS, bank statements and investment proofs, salaried taxpayers can accurately file their returns even without Form 16.
Planning to start investing in stock market? Avoid these 5 costly beginner mistakes
First-time stock market investors can avoid costly mistakes by focusing on diversification, asset allocation, disciplined investing and long-term wealth creation. Check out the five most common investing mistakes experts warn against and practical steps to build a stronger investment portfolio.
Looking for best equity mutual funds to invest for 5 years? Check these 12 funds with over 20% gain
Top-performing equity mutual funds delivered over 20% five-year returns, led by infrastructure, midcap, and smallcap funds, with varying AUM, ratings, and expense ratios highlighting strong performance.
ITR filing deadline 2026: Missing July 31 can cost you more than you think
The late filing fee is only one consequence of missing the ITR deadline. Delayed filing can also result in the loss of capital loss set-off benefits, delayed refunds and additional interest, increasing your tax burden in future years.
The best way to navigate market volatility? Invest for milestones, not markets
Market volatility often fuels fear and greed, prompting costly investment mistakes. Goal-based investing shifts the focus from market moves to life milestones, helping investors stay disciplined.
Best mid-cap mutual funds: 12 funds delivered over 18% 10-year SIP returns
Mid-cap funds have rewarded long-term SIP investors, with 12 schemes generating annualised returns of more than 18% over the past decade. A comparison of three-, five- and 10-year returns also shows that recent winners are not always the best long-term wealth creators.
Stopping SIP contributions permanently can significantly delay wealth creation goals as investors lose the benefit of regular investments and long-term compounding. ET Wealth analysis shows how discontinuing a Rs 20,000 monthly SIP can delay a Rs 1 crore corpus target by several years.
How to accurately report REIT/ InvIT income in ITR for AY 2026-27 ahead of 31 July deadline
Report REIT and InvIT income in your ITR for AY 202627. Know the tax treatment, choose the right form and keep essential documents ready to avoid mistakes before the 31 July deadline.
Bank of India Small Cap Fund among 21 equity MFs delivering over 20% SIP XIRR in one year
Around 21 equity mutual funds delivered over 20% XIRR on SIP investments over the past year, an ETMutualFunds analysis found. Small-cap funds dominated the list, with the top seven all belonging to the category and five generating over 30% XIRR. Bank of India Small Cap Fund topped the rankings with a 39.08% XIRR, turning a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP into around Rs 1.43 lakh.
Debt funds or direct bonds? Understanding the routes to fixed income investing
Sebi's reforms and online bond platforms have made direct bond investing more accessible than ever. But should investors choose individual bonds over debt mutual fundsor use both?
MF Tracker: Can Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund retain its edge after topping the 5-year return chart?
Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund leads five-year returns, raising questions about future performance. The fund delivered strong CAGR, outperforming its benchmark and category average. However, recent valuations suggest a lower scope for similar past returns. Experts advise diversified equity fund investments to mitigate concentration risk. Investors can consider SIPs for rupee cost averaging during market fluctuations.
Income tax refund delayed for AY 2026-27? 5 reasons your refund may be stuck
Income tax refund delays for AY 202627 may occur due to incorrect bank details, pending e-verification, PAN issues, tax mismatches or errors in return filing. Here are common causes of delays, how to track your refund status and the key checks to complete for faster processing.
Moving back for ageing parents? Here's the financial reality NRIs must prepare for
As more NRIs return to India to care for ageing parents, experts say early planning is crucial to manage healthcare costs, lower incomes, taxes, overseas assets and retirement savings.
Gold and silver prices today, 28 July: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
Paytm launches 11 ITR filing with ClearTax: What's included and should you use it?
Paytm has partnered with ClearTax to offer income tax return filing starting at 11 through its app. Here's what the plan includes, who can benefit, and the precautions taxpayers should take before filing.
The ITR filing deadline for AY 2026-27 remains 31 July, with experts expecting no extension. Over 4.1 crore returns have already been filed. Taxpayers should file and e-verify returns on time to avoid penalties, interest and loss of key tax benefits.
ITR filing 2026: Avoid these 5 costly mistakes before the July 31 deadline
The July 31 ITR deadline is just days away. Avoid these five common filing mistakes that could lead to tax notices, refund delays or additional tax demands.
