The deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for Assessment Year (AY) 2025-26, covering income earned during the financial year 2024-25, is today, 15 September 2025. The last date was initially set for 31 July 2025, but was extended due to changes in ITR forms and updates required in the system. With no further extensions announced, taxpayers who have not yet filed their returns should complete the process before the end of the day.
Official Deadline and Clarifications
In recent days, speculation on social media suggested that the ITR filing deadline would be extended to 30 September 2025. The Income Tax Department has clarified that these claims are false. The final date to file ITRs without penalty remains 15 September 2025.
Taxpayers are advised to rely only on official announcements from the Income Tax Department. Filing after the due date is still possible, but with consequences in terms of fees, interest, and loss of certain benefits.
Belated Returns and Penalties
If you miss the deadline today, you can still file a belated return until 31 December 2025. However, late filing attracts penalties under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act.
- For taxpayers with income above ₹5 lakh, the penalty is ₹5,000.
- For taxpayers with income up to ₹5 lakh, the penalty is ₹1,000.
Additionally, any unpaid tax liabilities will attract interest charges. Late filers also lose the ability to carry forward certain losses, except for those from house property, which can still be carried forward.
Tax Department Assistance
To support taxpayers on the final day, the Income Tax Department has kept a 24×7 helpdesk operational. Assistance is being provided through multiple channels, including phone calls, live chats, WebEx sessions, and social media platforms.
The department has encouraged taxpayers to file early in the day rather than waiting until the last hour, as heavy traffic on the income tax portal often leads to delays and glitches close to the deadline.
Key Steps Before Filing
If you have yet to file your return, here are the immediate steps to follow:
- Collect documents: Keep Form 16, Form 26AS, Annual Information Statement (AIS), and other financial documents ready. Ensure bank details, PAN, and Aadhaar are correct and linked.
- Choose the correct ITR form: Select the right form based on your income sources. Salaried individuals with limited income usually file ITR-1, while those with capital gains, business income, or foreign income may need to use ITR-2, ITR-3, or ITR-4.
- Pay pending taxes: If you owe any self-assessment tax, pay it before filing to avoid additional interest.
- File and e-verify: Filing alone is not enough. You must e-verify your return through Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or electronic verification code. Returns not verified within the specified time are treated as invalid.
- Check for errors: Ensure accuracy in income details, deductions, and exemptions claimed. Mistakes may lead to notices or delays in refunds.
Common Issues and Solutions
On the final day of filing, portal slowdowns and errors are often reported. Taxpayers facing such issues are advised to clear their browser cache, try alternate internet connections, or file during non-peak hours, such as early morning or late night. If the problem persists, contacting the tax department’s helpdesk can provide direct solutions.
Another common issue is incorrect bank account details. Taxpayers should ensure that the bank account provided is active and pre-validated on the income tax portal for faster refunds.
What’s at Stake
Filing on time not only avoids penalties but also ensures faster processing of returns and quicker refunds. Delayed filing can complicate financial planning, especially for those applying for loans or credit facilities, as lenders often request ITR acknowledgments as proof of income.
Taxpayers who rely on carry-forward of business or capital losses should be extra cautious. Missing today’s deadline means losing the right to offset those losses against future income, potentially leading to higher tax burdens in subsequent years.
Final Word
With the deadline ending today, taxpayers are left with limited time to complete the process. The Income Tax Department has provided 24×7 assistance to help resolve last-minute challenges, but the responsibility rests with individuals to act promptly.
If you have not yet filed your return, it is advisable to finalize the paperwork, submit the return, and complete e-verification without delay. Acting today will help you avoid penalties, protect future tax benefits, and maintain compliance.
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