The last date for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the Financial Year 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025-26) is 15 September 2025 for non-audit taxpayers. It includes salaried individuals, pensioners, and NRIs who are not required to get their accounts audited. This deadline was further extended from 31 July 2025 to 15 September, so that taxpayers may have some extra time due to various other delays.
With some buzz and rumors on social media hinting at further extension to 30 September, the Income Tax Department has dispelled such rumors by confirming that no such extension was granted.
What Happens If You Miss The Deadline
In the event of failing to make a return before 15 September, there is an option to file a belated return-the last day for this being 31 December 2025, with serious consequences:
- Section 234F Late filing fees: A maximum of ₹5000 would apply where total income is beyond ₹5 lakh; below ₹5 lakh, a smaller fee of ₹1,000 will be applied.
- Section 234A Interest for delay: Interest is charged even when there is delay in filing the return on the amount of tax not paid.
- Loss of certain benefits: You may be unable to claim deductions, such as those under Section 80C, maybe carry forward losses in some cases, or exercise other tax-advantages requiring timely filing.
Key Documents You Shall Need
When you wish to correctly file your ITR, the following documents should be prepared:
- Form 16 from employer(s)
- Form 26AS and Annual Information Statement (AIS)for tax credits and income details
- Bank statements, interest certificate, capital gains or assets-sell transactions
- Proofs for deductions (like under 80C, donations, etc.)
- Validity of PAN, Aadhaar and bank account details for refunds if any.
Portal Problem And Public Demand
Many taxpayers report technical glitches on the e-filing portal, especially with AIS downloading or getting Form 26AS, adding yet another smoky layer of anxiety awaiting the deadline. Some tax professionals and professional bodies are requesting the government for a deadline extension attributing these technical glitches as a cause. In fact, there have been no government announcements as yet for such a delay.
What You Shall Do Now
- File your ITR today, if indeed you haven’t done so already, rather than waiting until the last moment.
- Double-check all income sources, tax deducted, and deductions to avoid errors.
- Keep all files with supporting documents handy in case your file should be picked up for scrutiny.
- If one misses the deadline, file a belated return by 31st December, but be ready for penalties to be levied-would also include interest.
Also Read: Big Relief for Employees: 18 Months DA Arrears Payment Expected Shortly