Key idea
A handful of tasks, done at the right time each year, keep your money in order and your tax bill honest. Most take minutes.
The salaried financial year has a rhythm. Doing a few small things at the right moment prevents the year-end scramble and the missed refunds. Here is the calendar, roughly.
| When | Task |
|---|---|
| April Declare investments to your employer; pick your regime | |
| Through the year | Keep proofs; check monthly payslips |
| After year-end | Collect Form 16; match with AIS / 26AS |
| By 31 July | File your ITR; claim any refund |
| Anytime Check EPF passbook; review insurance cover |
Why the timing matters
Declaring investments in April (not February) lets your employer deduct the right TDS all year, so you are not waiting on a refund. Checking your EPF passbook catches a missing employer contribution early. Reviewing insurance once a year keeps your cover in step with your life.
Finished reading?
Marking this complete counts today, and your streak becomes day 1.