The TDS Reconciliation Analysis and Correction Enabling System (TRACES) is a web-based platform developed by the Income Tax Department. It serves as an interface for taxpayers, deductors, and other stakeholders involved in the Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) process. This guide provides detailed steps on accessing the TRACES portal, logging in as a deductor or taxpayer, and troubleshooting common login issues.
Logging in as a Deductor on TRACES
A deductor must log in to the TRACES portal to carry out various activities, including:
- Downloading Form 16 for taxpayers
- Generating Conso files and justification reports
- Managing the TDS account
- Viewing PAN master details
- Validating certificates
- Checking TDS refunds
- Checking challan status
- Performing online and offline corrections
To log in as a deductor, follow these steps:
- Visit the TRACES Portal: Open TRACES and click on “Continue” on the pop-up window.
- Navigate to Login: Click on the “Login” link located in the left navigation bar.
- Enter Login Credentials: Provide your User ID, Password, and TAN.
- Access the Dashboard: Upon successful login, the TRACES dashboard will be displayed, granting access to various functionalities.
Common Issues Faced by Sub-users While Logging into TRACES
Several issues can prevent a sub-user from accessing their TRACES account:
- Disabled or Deleted Account: If a sub-user has not logged in for two consecutive quarters in a financial year, the account is automatically disabled or deleted. In such cases, the admin user must recreate the account.
- Locked Account: Entering incorrect login credentials five times within 24 hours results in the account being locked for an hour. Logging in should be attempted after this duration.
Resetting a Forgotten TRACES Login Password
If the TRACES login password is forgotten, it can be reset using the following steps:
- Access the TRACES Portal: Visit the TRACES home page and click on “Continue.”
- Select ‘Forgot Password’ Option: On the left panel, choose “Forgot Password” under the login section and select “Deductor.”
- Provide Required Details: Fill in the requested information.
- Verify Mobile Number: An OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number, which must be entered to proceed.
- Reset Password: After OTP verification, a new password can be set, and a confirmation will be sent to the registered email.
Recovering a Forgotten User ID on TRACES
For those who forget their User ID, the following steps can be followed to retrieve it:
- Go to the TRACES Portal: Open the TRACES home page and click “Continue.”
- Select ‘Forgot User ID’ Option: On the left panel, choose “Forgot User ID” and select “Deductor.”
- Enter Necessary Information: Provide the required details as per instructions.
- Verify Registered Mobile Number: An OTP will be sent for validation.
- Retrieve User ID: After verification, the existing User ID and registered email ID will be displayed. Any necessary modifications can be made before proceeding.
- Activate Account: An activation link and codes will be sent via email and mobile, enabling a successful login.
Logging in as a Taxpayer or Pay and Account Office (PAO) on TRACES
Taxpayers and Pay and Account Offices (PAOs) can log in to TRACES for various purposes, including:
- Registering on TRACES
- Downloading Form 16B
- Verifying TDS certificates
- Viewing or downloading Form 26AS
- Managing user profiles and passwords
- Downloading aggregated TDS compliance reports
Steps to Log in as a Taxpayer or PAO:
- Visit the TRACES Portal: Open TRACES and proceed by clicking “Continue.”
- Select Login: Click on the login option from the left navigation panel.
- Choose User Type: Select “Taxpayer” or “PAO” as applicable.
Understanding the ‘Invalid Details’ Error
While resetting the password, users may encounter an “Invalid Details” error. This could be due to incorrect submission of the following details:
- User ID
- Date of Birth/Incorporation
- Name as per PAN
Conclusion
The TRACES portal serves as a crucial platform for managing TDS-related activities. Whether accessing it as a deductor or a taxpayer, understanding the login process and troubleshooting common issues ensures a seamless experience. By following the steps outlined above, users can efficiently navigate the TRACES system and perform necessary compliance activities without interruptions.
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Disclaimer: Aim of this article is to give basic knowledge about the topic to people who are not in touch with Indian tax norms. When anybody is dealing with these kinds of cases practically, he shall consider all relevant provisions of all applicable Laws like FEMA/Income Tax/RBI /Companies Act etc
