The Income Tax Department is set to launch a nationwide crackdown on taxpayers who have failed to deposit their TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) and TCS (Tax Collected at Source), according to official reports. The investigation will be based on tax deductions from FY22-23 and FY23-24, with nearly 40,000 taxpayers under scrutiny.
Comprehensive Strategy to Detect TDS/TCS Defaulters
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has devised a 16-point strategy to identify and act against TDS/TCS defaults. The data analytics division has already compiled a list of potential defaulters, enabling a systematic investigation.
A senior official stated, "We have data from the analytics team and will initially reach out to such taxpayers through intimation in case they have missed depositing tax." This enforcement drive is expected to be non-intrusive, following a similar approach to previous initiatives.
Who Will Be Targeted?
Authorities will focus on specific cases, including:
- Recurring defaulters who have consistently failed to deposit TDS/TCS.
- Discrepancies between tax deduction and advance tax payments.
- Frequent modifications in deductee details.
- Companies using unprofitable units to manipulate audits.
Assessing officers have been directed to flag cases of substantial disallowance under Section 40(a)(ia) of the Income Tax Act, which prevents deductions if TDS is not properly deducted or deposited with the government.
Additionally, officials will monitor revised TDS returns that show significant reductions in default amounts, ensuring that such modifications are not made to evade tax liabilities.
Use of Data Analytics for Efficient Monitoring
The Income Tax Department will use data analytics and artificial intelligence to detect patterns and irregularities in TDS payments. Field officers have been instructed to consider deductee complaints and analyze trends in tax defaults to ensure effective action.
Budget 2025: Simplifying TDS and TCS Compliance
As part of its recent budget announcements, the government has taken steps to simplify TDS and TCS rates by reducing the number of applicable rates and thresholds. This move is expected to streamline tax compliance and reduce administrative burdens for honest taxpayers.
A senior official highlighted the dual approach of the department: "There is a carrot-and-stick approach; while we have relaxed TDS compliance for honest taxpayers, strict action will be taken against wilful defaulters to make the tax system fair and equitable."
Conclusion
With 40,000 taxpayers under investigation, the Income Tax Department's latest initiative underscores the importance of timely TDS/TCS payments. Taxpayers are advised to ensure compliance and stay updated with regulatory changes to avoid penalties and enforcement actions.
Stay tuned for further updates on taxation policies and compliance measures!

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