09 Jul CBDT Issues New Guidelines for Section 148 Income Tax Notices
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) issued guidelines on June 26, 2024, via F.No.299/10/2022-Dir(Inv.III)/1522, detailing the procedure for issuing notices under Section 148 of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Here are the key points:
- Credible Information Requirement: The Assessing Officer (AO) can issue a notice under Section 148 only if credible information suggests that income has escaped assessment. This information may come from risk management systems, audit objections, information exchange agreements, whistleblower schemes, or court orders.
- Approval for Extended Cases: For reassessments extending beyond three years from the relevant assessment year, approval from a specified authority is required to ensure thorough scrutiny and prevent frivolous reassessments.
- Enclosures and Documentation: Notices must include relevant information and supporting documents. Details from the Investigation Wing or law enforcement agencies should be appropriately redacted if necessary. The notice must also mention the AO's name, designation, and any judicial orders relied upon.
- Show Cause Notice: Before issuing a final reassessment notice, the AO must provide the assessee with a show cause notice under Section 148A, explaining the reasons for reassessment and offering an opportunity to respond.
- Time Limits and Thresholds: Reassessment notices must generally be issued within three years from the end of the relevant assessment year. This period can be extended to ten years if the escaped income exceeds Rs. 50 lakh, ensuring the focus remains on cases with significant tax implications.
The complete guidelines can be accessed at the provided link:
https://www.nyca.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CBDT_Guidelines_S148.pdf
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