Income-tax return preparation becomes easier when the underlying records are organised before computation begins. The exact documents depend on your income profile, but a useful starting point is to keep PAN details, income statements, tax deduction records, relevant bank information, investment proofs and details of property or capital transactions available for review.
Start with your income sources
Make a short list of the income categories that apply to you. This helps identify which supporting records are likely to matter and prevents important information from being missed.
Keep tax records together
Tax deduction statements, advance-tax or self-assessment-tax payment information and prior return details should be kept in one place so they can be reconciled against the return being prepared.
Flag unusual transactions early
If the year included a property transaction, investment sale, business change, foreign income, notice or other non-routine event, mention it at the beginning of the review instead of waiting until filing.
Professional note: This is a general preparation guide. The actual documents and tax treatment depend on your facts and the law applicable to the relevant year.