For the first time, the income tax deadline has been pushed all the way to September 15th. If you’re still navigating the maze of forms and documents, you’re not alone. And if you’ve seen the ads for Jio Financial Services and Tax Buddy‘s collaboration to file your ITR for just ₹24, you’re probably wondering if it’s the right move.
As someone who looks at these services every year, here’s my take. The price is, without a doubt, the most aggressive we’ve seen. It’s a clear win for first-time filers or salaried employees with straightforward income—just a Form 16 to upload and you’re likely done. For that simple use case, paying more feels unnecessary.
However, the trade-off for that low cost can sometimes be a standardized, self-service experience. During my test, the platform was efficient for a basic ITR-1, but I could see how someone with even slightly complex finances—like capital gains from selling stocks or a second house property—might feel the need for more guided support. This offer is fantastic for simplicity, but may not be the fit for complexity.
Who Should File What? A Quick Guide
This deal is primarily for individuals with simple income. Which form is yours?
ITR-1 (Sahaj): This is for you if you’re a salaried individual with income up to ₹50 lakh, income from one house property, and income from other sources (like interest). You cannot use this if you have capital gains.
ITR-2: This is your form if you have income from capital gains (stocks, crypto), more than one house property, or foreign assets.
ITR-3 & ITR-4: For business owners, freelancers, and professionals.
The ₹24 offer is tailored for those filing ITR-1.
The Big Question: Can I Skip Filing Altogether?
Let’s get personal for a second. Even if your income is below the taxable limit (₹2.5 lakh), you cannot always skip filing.
You MUST file an ITR if:
You deposited over ₹1 crore in a current account.
You spent over ₹2 lakh on foreign travel or over ₹1 lakh on electricity.
You have business turnover over ₹10 lakh.
You want to carry forward investment losses.
But beyond rules, think of your ITR as your financial passport. You’ll need it for loans, visas, or even a rental agreement. Filing a zero-tax return is a healthy financial habit that builds a solid proof of income.
The Bottom Line
Our Opinion? The Jio-Tax Buddy ₹24 offer is a game-changer for anyone with a simple tax situation. It makes completing your civic duty almost free. But know its limits. If your financial picture has many layers, the value of a personal CA might outweigh the incredible savings.
Use the extended deadline wisely. Choose the tool that fits your life, and get it done.
Disclaimer: This article is based on my independent review for informational purposes. Please consider your individual financial situation before choosing a tax filing service.