New Delhi: This should bring tears to your eyes. July 31st is just around the corner and the income tax return forms are no easier to fill.

"These forms are complicated. It's adding to the last minute confusion," said Dinesh Shah, a harried taxpayer. "Last year the forms were very comprehensive and to-the point. This year, these are pretty detailed," said another taxpayer.

Most people suggest that form 16 should double up as the tax-return form since it contains all the relevant information on investments, deductions, earnings and rebates. "Form 16 includes details like salary, deductions, investments. Why can't that form become my return form?" L K Channa bank executive asks.

Tax experts too agree that the new forms are more confusing and difficult. With nine forms available people don't know which one to fill up. While finding the right return form is adding to taxpayers confusion, the government’s proposal to withdraw the option of filing returns at post offices, is yet another blow for tax paying consumers.

"It is difficult for a person to fill up these forms. Saral form atleast carried annexure that provided help while filling in the form. But the new form is lengthy and cumbersome," said Charted Accountant Vikas Agarwal.