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“Online Chat” Launched By IT Dept To Answer Taxpayers Queries:- An “online chat” service has been launched by the Income Tax (IT) Department for taxpayers. This new service is implemented so that the taxpayers can seek answers to their basic queries and doubts relating to direct tax issues.

On the main page of the department’s website - www.incometaxindia.gov.in/, a window has been opened with a prominent icon stating “Live Chat Online- ask your query”. “A team of experts from the department and independent tax practitioners has been deputed to answer the general queries of a taxpayer. This first-time initiative is aimed to enhance taxpayer services in the country,” the officer said.

Based on the feedback received by the department, more features would be added to the online chat system, said the officer. A person can enter the ‘chat room’, by furnishing an email-id and ask questions as a guest.

“An option has also been provided to the taxpayer for emailing the entire chat to their ids for future reference,” the officer said.

However, a precautionary note at the starting of the chat states: “The replies are based on the opinion of the expert and in no manner it should be interpreted as the clarification by the Income-tax Department on any matter.” A new dedicated directorate within its establishment had been set up the IT department last year, to monitor and resolve grievances of tax payers.

SUPRAJA