Recognizing the ITR Submission Deadline
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Your Income Tax Return (ITR) for FY 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025–26) must be filed by September 15, 2025, which is an extension of the July 31, 2025.
To whom does this apply?
➤ By this date, all individuals, HUFs, AOPs, and BOIs whose accounts don’t need to be audited—such as salaried people, non-resident individuals, and pensioners—must file.
➤ There is still time for audit cases (such as companies that need a tax audit) until October 31, 2025.
If You Miss the Deadline, What’s at Risk?
A belated return: By December 31, 2025, you still have time to file, but:
➤ Section 234F late fee:
➤ If taxable income exceeds ₹5 lakh, up to ₹5,000
➤ Section 234A interest is 1% monthly on the amount of unpaid taxes.
Delay consequences: Late filing can delay refunds, attract interest charges, and potentially complicate future financial transactions like loans.
What Caused the Deadline Extension?
The following reasons led to the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) extending the deadline:
➤ New ITR forms and utilities were released late.
➤ Problems with system readiness and delays in TDS credit.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Extended Deadline | (For non-audit cases) September 15, 2025 |
| Belated Filing | Permitted through December 31, 2025 |
| Late Fee | Up to ₹5,000 (if income exceeds ₹5L) or ₹1,000 (if income is less than ₹5L). |
| Interest | 1% of unpaid taxes each month |
| Audit Cases | The deadline is October 31, 2025. |
| Why Extended | Because of delays in TDS updates and utilities/forms |
Your Checklist of Actions
- To avoid penalties, submit your ITR by September 15, 2025.
- Make sure to use e-verification; without it, returns are incomplete.
- File late by December 31 if required, but be mindful of fees and interest.
- Note the deadline of October 31 for taxpayers who must submit to an audit.
- Filing an ITR is essential for documentation, refunds, and loss carryforward even if taxes are paid through TDS.