17 February 2011
Got a refund cheque for the assessment year 2010-2011 which is very rare since it has filed only in September 2010. In the received cheque the account number mentioned is to be changed as the client has closed the account and started a joint account with his wife in the same bank. Now how can collect the cheque as the account number printed is different from the operating account. Since the cheque is came from Bombay whether I have to return to there for correction or the concerned ITO in the jurisdiction? Please clarify..
02 August 2024
If you've received a refund cheque with an account number that no longer matches the operating account (because the account was closed and replaced with a new one), you need to follow certain steps to address the issue and ensure you can collect the refund. Here’s a detailed approach to resolve this:
### Steps to Resolve the Issue:
1. **Contact the Issuing Bank:** - **Visit the Bank:** Take the cheque to the bank where it was issued. Explain the situation and ask if they can reissue the cheque or provide guidance on how to proceed. - **Bank Details:** The bank will provide information on how to handle such cases, which might involve submitting a written request or documentation.
2. **Contact the Income Tax Department:** - **Jurisdictional Income Tax Office (ITO):** Reach out to the ITO in the jurisdiction where your case is handled. Since the cheque is from a Mumbai office, contact the Mumbai office or the office where your assessment was processed. - **Submit a Request:** Write a letter or email explaining the situation. Include details such as your PAN, assessment year, and a copy of the cheque. Request a reissue of the refund cheque with the correct account details.
3. **Submit a Refund Reissue Request:** - **Online Application:** Some regions offer an online facility to request a reissue of the refund cheque. Check the [Income Tax e-Filing Portal](https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/) for any options available for reissuing refunds. - **Form Submission:** You may need to submit a formal request or application form for the reissue of the refund cheque.
4. **Documentation Required:** - **Letter of Request:** A letter explaining why the cheque needs to be reissued (account closure, new account details). - **Old and New Account Details:** Include a copy of the old account closure statement and details of the new joint account. - **Refund Cheque Copy:** Attach a copy of the refund cheque received. - **Identity Proof:** Include copies of relevant identity and bank documents if required.
5. **Follow-Up:** - **Track the Request:** Keep a record of all communications and requests submitted. Follow up with the Income Tax Department or the bank if you do not receive a response within a reasonable time.
### Summary of Actions:
1. **Contact the Bank:** Visit the bank to inquire about the possibility of reissuing the cheque. 2. **Reach Out to the ITO:** Contact the jurisdictional ITO with your request for reissuing the refund cheque. 3. **Online or Form Submission:** Utilize online facilities or submit a formal request if available. 4. **Provide Documentation:** Ensure you provide all required documents and information. 5. **Follow Up:** Keep track of your request and follow up as needed.
By following these steps, you should be able to address the issue with the incorrect account number on the refund cheque and facilitate the reissue of the cheque to the correct account.