ITR Filing Deadline Extended: Key Dates to Remember

The deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for the financial year 2024-25 has been extended to September 15, 2025. This decision comes after numerous requests from chartered accountants and professional bodies who highlighted the difficulties taxpayers faced in meeting the original deadline of July 31, 2025. The extension aims to provide relief to taxpayers caught in various challenges this filing season.

For taxpayers whose accounts require an audit, the deadline remains unchanged at September 30, 2025. This is crucial for those whose financial statements undergo rigorous scrutiny, ensuring compliance with tax regulations.

This year, tax professionals raised several issues that have made the filing process particularly challenging. Many users reported glitches on the income tax e-filing portal, including slow logins and errors that hindered the uploading of returns. Such technical difficulties can frustrate taxpayers and complicate the filing process.

Another issue was data mismatches between the Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS. These discrepancies created confusion about tax credits, leading to additional time spent reconciling data. Taxpayers often found themselves needing to verify information to ensure accurate filings, which can be time-consuming.

Additionally, the release of updated ITR forms and utilities was delayed, which further shortened the effective filing window. The new reporting format introduced by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) added to the compliance burden, making it harder for taxpayers to prepare their returns in a timely manner.

In response to these challenges, the Chandigarh Chartered Accountants Taxation Association (CCATAX) and other groups urged the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to consider extending the filing deadlines. Their efforts resulted in a circular on May 27, 2025, which officially extended the deadline by six weeks.

Taxpayers must be aware that missing the September 15 deadline can lead to late fees under Section 234F, as well as interest under Sections 234A, 234B, and 234C. Additionally, they may lose the opportunity to carry forward specific losses, which can have financial implications in subsequent years.

While the extension provides individuals with more time to file accurate returns, experts caution against waiting until the last minute. Given the complexities and potential for further complications, it is advisable to file early and ensure compliance with all requirements.