What’s the New ITR Filing Deadline? 📅

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has officially extended the income tax return (ITR) e-filing deadline for non-audit individual taxpayers for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26) to 15 September 2025 from the original 31 July. This extension, announced via a CBDT circular, applies to individuals, HUFs, AOPs, and BOIs filing under Section 139(1). Audit-linked cases retain their later statutory deadlines, typically in October or November. The extension addresses challenges like updated ITR forms, staggered utility rollouts, and delays in TDS credit reconciliation.

Why the Extension? And Will There Be Another? 🤔

Several practical hurdles prompted the CBDT to extend the deadline:

• Updated ITR schemas and staggered utility releases 📋
• TDS data availability from early June 🕒
• Ongoing reconciliation issues with AIS and Form 26AS 🔍

As of late August 2025, filings lagged behind last year’s pace, prompting professional bodies to request more time. However, experts caution that another extension beyond 15 September is unlikely due to potential conflicts with the broader tax calendar. Waiting for a last-minute extension could be risky, so start preparing now! 🚀

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline? ⚠️

Missing the 15 September 2025 deadline can lead to:

• Late Fee: Under Section 234F, based on income thresholds 💸
• Interest: 1% per month or part thereof on unpaid tax under Section 234A 📈
• Loss of Benefits: Inability to carry forward certain losses if the original 31 July deadline is missed 📉
• Delayed Refunds: Verification bottlenecks can slow down refund processing ⏳

Belated and revised returns are allowed until 31 December 2025, but penalties and interest may apply. Updated returns can be filed up to 31 March 2030.

Case Study: The Cost of Delay 😔

Rohit, a salaried professional in Bengaluru, assumed another extension would come and delayed filing until late September 2025. Missing the 15 September deadline cost him:

• A late fee under Section 234F 📜
• 1% monthly interest on ₹42,000 unpaid tax under Section 234A 💰
• Loss of a short-term capital loss carryforward 📊
• Delayed refund due to verification backlogs ⏰

Rohit’s story highlights the importance of filing on time to avoid financial and procedural headaches.

Key ITR Due Dates for AY 2025–26 📋

Timeline: ITR Filing for AY 2025–26 ⏰

Example: Interest Calculation for Late Filing 📊

If you owe ₹30,000 in taxes and file on 20 November 2025, interest under Section 234A accrues at 1% per month or part thereof for September (part), October, and November, totaling 3% or ₹900. A late fee under Section 234F may also apply, depending on your income. Additional interest under Sections 234B/234C could apply for advance tax shortfalls.

How to File Smoothly Before 15 September 🚀

To avoid last-minute stress, follow these steps:

1. Check Records: Compare pre-filled data with Form 16, AIS, and Form 26AS for TDS/TCS accuracy. ✅
2. Pre-Validate Bank Accounts: Ensure accounts are linked for seamless refunds. 🏦
3. E-Verify Promptly: Complete verification to avoid processing delays. 📧
4. File Early: Avoid portal slowdowns during peak hours near the deadline. ⏰

Tax experts recommend filing during off-peak hours and organizing documents early to avoid mismatches and retries.

Frequently Asked Questions ❓