ITR Filing: Don't panic if you missed the deadline; there's still a chance to file your ITR.

ITR Filing: The last date for filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) for the assessment year 2025-26 was September 16, 2025. If you haven't filed on time, there's still a chance. Taxpayers can file belated returns with a late fee until December 31, 2025. Under Section 234F, those with income above Rs 5 lakh will be charged a penalty of up to Rs 5,000, and those with income up to Rs 5 lakh will be charged a late fee of Rs 1,000. Late filing may also result in a delay in tax refunds and increased interest.

ITR Filing: If you missed the deadline for filing your Income Tax Return (ITR), there's no need to panic. The government extended the deadline for filing ITRs for the assessment year 2025-26 from September 15 to September 16, 2025. This move was primarily aimed at addressing technical glitches and providing relief to taxpayers. However, if you haven't filed your ITR within this one-day extension, there's no need to worry. The Income Tax Department has provided alternative options.

ITR Filing Options

If a taxpayer fails to file their income tax return by the deadline, they can still file their ITR by December 31, 2025, subject to a late fee. The Income Tax Department has provided an additional extension of time, known as a belated return, under the rules. This means that taxpayers still have the opportunity to file their ITRs after the deadline has passed, but they will be subject to a penalty. The deadline for filing ITRs for this year has been set at December 31, 2025.

Rules for Late Filing

Section 234F of the Income Tax Act imposes penalties for late filing of returns. Taxpayers with annual incomes exceeding ₹5 lakh will be fined up to ₹5,000 for filing a late return. Those with annual incomes up to ₹5 lakh will be charged a maximum late fee of ₹1,000. The amount of late fees depends on the taxpayer's income.

Challenges Related to Late Filing

Taxpayers can face several problems when filing their ITR late.

Delayed Tax Refunds: Failure to file their ITR on time can result in longer refund processing times.

Threat of Scrutiny: Late filing can lead to additional scrutiny by the Income Tax Department.
Interest Payment: If a taxpayer has tax dues and fails to file their ITR on time, they will be required to pay 1% monthly interest on the outstanding amount under Section 234A of the Income Tax Act.

Importance of Belated Returns

Belted returns are a helpful option for taxpayers. They can fulfill their tax obligations even after missing the deadline. However, this option can be costly due to late fees and interest. Nevertheless, this option is preferable, as not filing your ITR on time can lead to numerous financial problems, including difficulties in loan processing, visa applications, and a lack of transparency in financial transactions.

What should taxpayers do?

First, organize all documents related to your income, investments, and tax deductions.

Visit the Income Tax Department's portal and fill in the required details.

If you encounter any problems, consult a tax expert or chartered accountant.

Be sure to file your belated return before the deadline of December 31, 2025, to avoid unnecessary penalties and interest.

Taxpayers have options

Filing income tax returns is not only a legal obligation but also a part of financial discipline. The government extended the deadline by one day due to technical glitches, but taxpayers who haven't filed their ITR by September 16, 2025, still have options. Belated returns can be filed with late fees and interest until December 31, 2025. Therefore, prepare your documents on time and file your ITR as soon as possible to avoid scrutiny by the Income Tax Department.

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