Extended Deadline for Income Tax Return Filing: Key Details

Income Tax Return Filing Deadline Extended

The deadline for submitting Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25 has been pushed back to September 15, 2025. Taxpayers can still file delayed returns until December 31, 2025, but this may incur penalties, interest, and the potential loss of tax benefits.

Originally set for July 31, 2025, the new deadline is now confirmed. Tax professionals advise that no further extensions are expected, urging taxpayers to file their returns promptly.

Important Dates for ITR Filing

New deadlines for ITR submission (FY 2024-25, AY 2025-26)

Consequences of Late ITR Filing

Penalties for Delayed Submission

Taxpayers who miss the deadline can file a belated return under section 139(4), but this incurs penalties and interest:

1. Section 234A imposes a 1% monthly interest on unpaid taxes.

2. Section 234F imposes a penalty of ₹5,000 for incomes exceeding ₹5 lakh.

3. For incomes below ₹5 lakh, the penalty is ₹1,000.

Late submissions may also lead to the forfeiture of certain tax benefits, including the ability to carry forward capital or business losses to future years. Additionally, exemptions under sections 10A, 10B, 80-IA, 80-IB, 80-IC, 80-ID, and 80-IE may be impacted.

Steps to File a Late ITR

How to Submit a Delayed ITR

1. Log in to the Income Tax e-filing portal.

2. Navigate to the ‘e-File’ tab and select ‘Income Tax Returns’ > ‘File Income Tax Return’.

3. Choose the assessment year (AY 2025-26).

4. Opt for ‘Online’ as the filing mode and click on ‘Start new filing’.

5. Indicate your status (Individual/HUF/Company) and select the appropriate ITR form.

6. Review and confirm your personal information.

7. Choose section 139(4) in the filing section.

8. Enter all income details, compute tax, and finalize the payment.