How to Check TDS Statement

Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is a critical component of Indias income tax framework, designed to collect tax at the point of income generation. Whether you are an employee, a freelancer, a business owner, or an investor, understanding how to check your TDS statement is essential to ensure accurate tax compliance, avoid discrepancies, and claim rightful refunds. A TDS statement provides a comprehensive record of all taxes deducted from your income by various deductors such as employers, banks, or clients and deposited with the Income Tax Department. Regularly verifying your TDS statement helps you reconcile your Form 26AS, identify missing deductions, and prepare accurate income tax returns. This guide offers a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough on how to check your TDS statement, along with best practices, tools, real-world examples, and answers to common questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Checking your TDS statement is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail and access to the correct government portals. Below is a comprehensive, sequential guide to help you verify your TDS details accurately.

Method 1: Using the Income Tax e-Filing Portal

The most reliable and official method to check your TDS statement is through the Income Tax Departments e-Filing portal. This platform provides access to Form 26AS, which is the consolidated annual tax statement reflecting all TDS and TCS credits linked to your Permanent Account Number (PAN).

1. Visit the official Income Tax e-Filing website at https://www.incometax.gov.in.
2. Click on the Login button located at the top-right corner of the homepage.
3. Enter your PAN as the User ID and your password. If you have enabled two-factor authentication, complete the OTP verification sent to your registered mobile number or email.
4. Once logged in, navigate to the My Account menu located at the top of the dashboard.
5. Select View Form 26AS (Tax Credit) from the dropdown list.
6. You will be redirected to the TRACES (TDS Reconciliation Analysis and Correction Enablers System) portal. Choose the financial year for which you want to view your TDS statement.
7. Select the format HTML for a user-friendly view or PDF for a downloadable, printable version.
8. Click View/Download. The system will generate your Form 26AS, which includes all TDS deductions made against your PAN during the selected financial year.

Form 26AS is divided into multiple sections:

• Part A: Details of TDS deducted by employers, banks, or other entities, including the deductors name, TAN, amount paid, tax deducted, and date of deposit.
• Part B: Details of TCS (Tax Collected at Source), if applicable.
• Part C: Details of tax paid directly by you (advance tax or self-assessment tax).
• Part D: Details of refunds issued to you during the year.
• Part E: Details of high-value transactions reported under Section 206C(1H) or other provisions.

Review each section carefully. Ensure that every deduction made by your employer or other deductors is accurately reflected. Any mismatch may indicate an error in filing or a delay in depositing the tax.

Method 2: Accessing TDS via TRACES Portal (For Deductors and Taxpayers)

The TRACES portal is primarily designed for deductors to file TDS returns, but registered taxpayers can also use it to download their Form 26AS in a more detailed format.

1. Go to the TRACES website: https://www.tdscpc.gov.in.
2. Click on Register as Taxpayer if you havent already. You will need your PAN, date of birth, and registered mobile number.
3. After registration and verification, log in using your PAN and password.
4. On the dashboard, click on View Form 26AS under the Statements/Forms section.
5. Select the financial year and choose the statement type Taxpayer or Deductor (select Taxpayer).
6. Click on View/Download to access your statement.
7. TRACES allows you to download Form 26AS in PDF, XML, or HTML formats. For reconciliation purposes, the XML format is recommended for use with tax filing software.

TRACES offers additional features such as the ability to raise discrepancies if you notice any mismatches in TDS credits. This is particularly useful if your employer has filed a return with incorrect details, such as wrong PAN or amount.

Method 3: Using Net Banking or Bank Portal

Many banks and financial institutions offer TDS statement access through their net banking portals. This method is especially useful for individuals who receive interest income from fixed deposits or savings accounts, where banks deduct TDS under Section 194A.

1. Log in to your banks net banking portal using your credentials.
2. Navigate to the Statements or Tax Documents section.
3. Look for options like TDS Certificate, Form 16A, or TDS Summary.
4. Select the relevant financial year and download the document.

Form 16A is the TDS certificate issued by banks or other non-salary deductors. While it is not a consolidated statement like Form 26AS, it provides proof of tax deducted on specific transactions. Keep these certificates organized for reconciliation with your Form 26AS.

Method 4: Checking TDS via NSDL or UTIITSL

NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited) and UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited) are authorized agencies that provide tax-related services, including access to Form 26AS.

1. Visit the NSDL TIN website: https://www.tin-nsdl.com.
2. Click on Services > Income Tax Return > View Form 26AS.
3. You will be redirected to the e-Filing portal for authentication. Follow the login steps as described in Method 1.
4. Alternatively, visit UTIITSLs portal: https://www.utiitsl.com and navigate to the same section.

Both portals are reliable and offer the same Form 26AS data as the Income Tax Departments website. Choose the one with the most stable connection for your region.

Method 5: Mobile Applications for TDS Checking

The Income Tax Department has launched the Income Tax India mobile app, available on Android and iOS. This app allows taxpayers to check their TDS details on the go.

1. Download the official Income Tax India app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Register or log in using your PAN and registered mobile number.
3. Go to the My Tax section.
4. Select View Form 26AS.
5. Choose the financial year and view your statement directly on your device.

The app also sends push notifications for updates on tax filings, refunds, and discrepancies, making it a convenient tool for proactive tax management.

Best Practices

Checking your TDS statement isnt a one-time activity. It should be integrated into your annual financial routine to ensure accuracy, avoid penalties, and maximize tax benefits. Here are essential best practices to follow.

1. Check TDS Statement Monthly or Quarterly

Dont wait until the end of the financial year to verify your TDS. Employers and banks typically file TDS returns quarterly, and delays or errors may go unnoticed for months. Check your Form 26AS at least once every quarter to ensure timely corrections. Early detection of mismatches gives you ample time to contact the deductor and request a revised return.

2. Cross-Verify with Payslips and Bank Statements

If you are a salaried employee, compare the TDS amount shown in your Form 26AS with the TDS deducted from your monthly payslips. For interest income, cross-check the TDS amount shown in your banks Form 16A with your bank statements. Any inconsistency should be flagged immediately.

3. Maintain a Digital Record

Download and save your Form 26AS and Form 16A for every financial year in a secure cloud storage or encrypted folder. Organize files by year and deductor name. This record will be invaluable during income tax filing, audits, or if you need to prove tax compliance in the future.

4. Use Tax Software for Reconciliation

Many tax filing platforms like ClearTax, Tax2win, or H&R Block offer automated reconciliation tools that compare your Form 26AS with your income records. These tools highlight discrepancies and suggest corrections, reducing manual errors and saving time.

5. Address Discrepancies Promptly

If you notice missing TDS credits or incorrect details in Form 26AS, do not ignore them. Contact the deductor (employer, bank, etc.) and request a revised TDS return. Provide them with your PAN, correct details, and supporting documents. The deductor must file a correction within the stipulated time to ensure your tax credit is updated.

6. Update Your PAN Details

Ensure that your PAN is correctly linked with your bank accounts, demat accounts, and employer records. Any mismatch in PAN such as a typo or outdated information can lead to TDS not being credited to your account. Use the NSDL or UTIITSL portal to update your PAN details if needed.

7. Dont Rely Solely on Form 16

Form 16 is issued only by employers and covers salary income. If you have multiple sources of income such as rental income, interest, or freelance earnings you must check Form 26AS to see all TDS deductions. Relying only on Form 16 can lead to underreporting of income and missed tax credits.

8. Keep Records for 6 Years

Under the Income Tax Act, taxpayers are required to retain all tax-related documents for at least six years from the end of the relevant assessment year. This includes Form 26AS, Form 16, Form 16A, and bank TDS certificates. These records may be requested during a tax scrutiny or audit.

Tools and Resources

Several digital tools and official resources can simplify the process of checking and managing your TDS statement. Leveraging these tools ensures accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.

Official Government Portals

• Income Tax e-Filing Portal https://www.incometax.gov.in Primary platform for accessing Form 26AS and filing returns.
• TRACES Portal https://www.tdscpc.gov.in For detailed TDS reconciliation and discrepancy resolution.
• NSDL TIN https://www.tin-nsdl.com Alternative access to Form 26AS and PAN services.
• UTIITSL https://www.utiitsl.com Offers Form 26AS download and PAN-related services.

Third-Party Tax Platforms

• ClearTax Offers automated Form 26AS reconciliation, income categorization, and e-filing support.
• Tax2win Provides real-time TDS tracking, personalized tax planning, and AI-driven error detection.
• Groww Includes a tax dashboard that links your investments and TDS deductions from mutual funds and fixed deposits.
• Zerodha Console For investors, Zerodha provides TDS details on equity trading and dividend income.

Mobile Applications

• Income Tax India App Official app by the Income Tax Department for on-the-go access to Form 26AS and tax filings.
• myITReturn Helps track TDS, calculate tax liability, and file returns with minimal input.
• Quicko Designed for freelancers and small businesses, it auto-imports Form 26AS and matches income sources.

Excel Templates for TDS Reconciliation

For individuals who prefer manual tracking, downloadable Excel templates are available on government and tax advisory websites. These templates allow you to input your Form 26AS data and compare it against your income records. Look for templates labeled TDS Reconciliation Sheet on the NSDL or Income Tax Departments resource pages.

PDF Readers with Text Search

When downloading Form 26AS in PDF format, use advanced PDF readers like Adobe Acrobat or Foxit Reader. These tools allow you to search for specific terms such as your PAN, deductor TAN, or amount. This is especially helpful when reviewing large statements with multiple entries.

Browser Extensions for Tax Tracking

Extensions like Tax Tracker or Income Tax Assistant for Chrome and Firefox can auto-fill your PAN during portal visits and save login credentials securely. While not officially endorsed, these tools can streamline your workflow if used responsibly.

Real Examples

Understanding how TDS works becomes clearer when viewed through real-life scenarios. Below are three practical examples demonstrating how to check and reconcile TDS statements.

Example 1: Salaried Employee with Multiple Bank FDs

Rahul is a software engineer earning ?12 lakh annually. His employer deducts ?1.8 lakh as TDS and issues Form 16. Additionally, Rahul has fixed deposits worth ?50 lakh across three banks, earning ?2.5 lakh in interest annually. Each bank deducts ?25,000 as TDS (10% of interest exceeding ?40,000). However, when Rahul checks his Form 26AS, he notices that only two banks have reported the TDS. The third bank, due to a technical error, failed to file the return.

Rahul downloads his Form 26AS from the e-Filing portal, identifies the missing ?25,000, and contacts the banks customer service via email. He provides his PAN, FD account number, and interest certificate. The bank files a revised TDS return within 15 days, and the credit appears in his Form 26AS. Rahul then files his ITR with the correct tax credit, avoiding an unnecessary tax payment.

Example 2: Freelancer Receiving Payments from Multiple Clients

Sneha is a freelance graphic designer who works with five clients across India. Three clients deduct 10% TDS under Section 194J on payments exceeding ?30,000. She receives Form 16A from two clients but none from the third. When she checks Form 26AS, she finds only two entries for TDS, totaling ?18,000, despite expecting ?27,000.

Sneha reaches out to the third client, who admits they forgot to file the TDS return. She shares her PAN, invoice copies, and payment proof. The client files a belated return. Sneha then reconciles her income and TDS in her ITR, declaring the full income and claiming the correct credit. Without checking Form 26AS, she might have paid excess tax or faced scrutiny for unreported income.

Example 3: Retiree with Pension and Interest Income

Mr. Verma, a retired government officer, receives a monthly pension and interest from his savings account and post office scheme. His pension provider deducts TDS, and the bank deducts TDS on interest above ?40,000. In April, Mr. Verma checks his Form 26AS and notices that the banks TDS entry shows ?12,000, but his Form 16A shows ?15,000.

He contacts the bank and discovers that the bank used his old PAN, which had a typo. He submits a corrected PAN form to the bank and requests a revised TDS return. After two weeks, the corrected entry appears in Form 26AS. Mr. Verma files his ITR with the accurate credit and receives his refund promptly.

These examples illustrate that discrepancies are common but manageable. Regular checking of TDS statements prevents financial loss and legal complications.

FAQs

What is a TDS statement?

A TDS statement, commonly known as Form 26AS, is a consolidated tax statement issued by the Income Tax Department that shows all taxes deducted at source on your income during a financial year. It includes details of TDS by employers, banks, and other entities, as well as advance tax and self-assessment tax paid by you.

Is Form 26AS the same as Form 16?

No. Form 16 is issued only by employers and includes details of salary income and TDS deducted on it. Form 26AS is a comprehensive statement that includes TDS from all sources salary, interest, rent, commissions, and more and is accessible online via the Income Tax portal.

Why is my TDS not reflecting in Form 26AS?

There could be several reasons: the deductor has not filed the TDS return, there is a mismatch in your PAN, the return was filed late, or there is an error in the TAN or amount. Check with the deductor and request a revised return if needed.

Can I check TDS without logging in?

No. Accessing Form 26AS requires authentication using your PAN and registered mobile number or password. This ensures the security and privacy of your tax information.

How often is Form 26AS updated?

Form 26AS is updated quarterly after deductors file their TDS returns. The updates typically occur within 1530 days after the due date for each quarter (July 31, October 31, January 31, and May 31).

What should I do if I find an error in Form 26AS?

Contact the deductor (employer, bank, etc.) immediately and provide them with the correct details. Ask them to file a revised TDS return. You can also raise a discrepancy request on the TRACES portal if you are registered.

Is it mandatory to check TDS before filing ITR?

Yes. It is highly recommended and practically mandatory. Filing ITR without reconciling Form 26AS can lead to incorrect tax calculations, refund delays, or notices from the Income Tax Department.

Can I download Form 26AS for previous years?

Yes. The Income Tax portal allows you to download Form 26AS for the last six financial years. Ensure you select the correct assessment year when viewing the statement.

Does TDS appear in Form 26AS even if the deductor hasnt deposited the tax?

No. TDS will only appear in Form 26AS after the deductor has filed the return and the tax has been deposited with the government. If the deductor has deducted tax but not deposited it, the credit will not reflect in your statement.

What is the difference between TDS and TCS?

TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) is tax deducted by the payer before making a payment. TCS (Tax Collected at Source) is tax collected by the seller at the time of sale of specified goods. Both are reflected in Form 26AS under separate sections.

Conclusion

Checking your TDS statement is not merely a procedural task it is a vital act of financial responsibility. In a system where tax compliance is increasingly digitized and automated, overlooking your TDS credits can lead to unnecessary tax payments, missed refunds, or even scrutiny notices. By following the step-by-step methods outlined in this guide, adopting best practices, leveraging digital tools, and learning from real-world examples, you gain full control over your tax position.

Whether you are a salaried professional, a business owner, or a retiree, the ability to access, verify, and reconcile your TDS statement empowers you to file accurate income tax returns and maintain a clean tax record. Make it a habit to check your Form 26AS quarterly, cross-reference with your income documents, and resolve discrepancies promptly. The small time invested today can save you significant stress, money, and time in the future.

Tax compliance is not about fear its about clarity. And clarity begins with knowing exactly how much tax has been deducted on your behalf. Start checking your TDS statement today, and take charge of your financial future with confidence.