Answer

1. F

   Facts

   The officer has information suggesting some income for an old year was not taxed. Before reopening that year, the law requires a show cause notice with that information and a chance to reply. Nothing is reopened yet.

2. P

   Provisions and law

   • Sec 148A (now Sec 281)Before a Sec 148 notice, the officer must share the information, give a show cause notice and pass a reasoned order
   • Sec 147 (now Sec 279)If income chargeable to tax has escaped assessment, the officer may assess or reassess it
   • Sec 149 (now Sec 282)Time limit: Sec 148A notice within 3 years from the end of the assessment year, up to 5 years only if escaped income is ₹50 lakh or more
3. A

   Analysis

   Under Sec 148A (now Sec 281) of the Income-tax Act 1961, the officer must share the information relied on, ask you to show cause why a Sec 148 notice should not be issued, and then pass a reasoned order. Your reply is the best chance to stop the reopening, because once a Sec 148 notice is issued the whole year can be reassessed under Sec 147 (now Sec 279). Check the year, the transaction and the amount alleged. Most notices issued in 2026 for FY 2025-26 or earlier remain under the 1961 Act.

4. C

   Conclusion

   1. 1Open the notice in e-Proceedings and download the information attached.
   2. 2Note the assessment year, transaction and amount alleged.
   3. 3Check the time limit in Sec 149 for that year.
   4. 4Prepare a reply with evidence before the date.

General guidance from TaxSavvy’s library of money processes. Laws change; your Savvy confirms the answer on your exact case before anything is filed.