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Assessment Year

Updated on July 18, 2023


The assessment year is the year immediately following the financial year in which the income is earned. It is denoted as AY and is used for the purpose of filing income tax returns and assessing the tax liability of individuals and businesses.

Understanding assessment year.

During the assessment year, individuals and businesses are required to file their income tax returns and provide details of their income, deductions, and taxes paid during the previous financial year. The income tax department uses this information to assess and determine the tax liability of the taxpayer for that particular assessment year.

For example, if the financial year is 2022-23, the assessment year corresponding to it would be 2023-24. During the assessment year 2023-24, individuals and businesses will file their income tax returns for the income earned in the financial year 2022-23.

The assessment year is important as it represents the period during which the tax authorities review and verify the income, deductions, and taxes of the taxpayer. It is the time when the tax liability is determined, and any additional taxes or refunds are processed.

Understanding the assessment year is crucial for taxpayers to ensure timely filing of their income tax returns and compliance with the tax laws of the country. It allows individuals and businesses to fulfill their tax obligations and maintain proper financial records.