Income Tax Return Extended? ITR Filing Deadline for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27)

Your ITR deadline for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27) depends on which category you fall in - and the first of those deadlines has already gone by. The 31 July 2026 due date for ITR-1 and ITR-2 filers passed without any CBDT extension, so salaried taxpayers who missed it now need to file a belated return (late fee and interest apply - details further down this page). Non-audit business and professional filers using ITR-3 or ITR-4 still have time, with a staggered due date of 31 August 2026, while audit cases follow on 31 October and transfer-pricing cases on 30 November 2026. This page tracks each deadline, what changes if the CBDT announces an extension, and exactly what to do if you have already missed yours

When is the last date to file ITR for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27)?

The last date to file your Income Tax Return (ITR) for FY 2025–26 (AY 2026–27) depends on your taxpayer category. For most salaried individuals, pensioners, and other taxpayers who are not required to get their accounts audited, the due date was 31 July 2026 - it has passed without an extension, and belated filing is now the route. Taxpayers with business or professional income who are not subject to a tax audit generally have until 31 August 2026. Those whose accounts require an audit usually have a later deadline as prescribed under the Income-tax Act. Filing your ITR before the due date helps you avoid late fees, interest, and delays in processing your refund. It also ensures smooth compliance and allows you to revise your return, if needed, within the permitted time. Always check for any official extensions announced by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), as filing deadlines may change in exceptional situations.

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Form-wise due dates at a glance FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27)

Belated vs Revised vs Updated (ITR-U)

Section 234F late-fee 

What is Section 87A?

For FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27), the rebate under the new tax regime is up to Rs. 60,000, which brings the tax on taxable income up to Rs. 12 lakh down to zero (Budget 2025 raised this from the earlier Rs. 7 lakh threshold). Under the old regime, the rebate remains up to Rs. 12,500 for taxable income up to Rs. 5 lakh. The rebate does not apply to income taxed at special rates, such as long-term capital gains under Section 112A.

What an extension means for taxpayers (when granted)

The extension of the income tax filing deadline offers several significant benefits to taxpayers:

1. More time for accurate filing: The extended deadline gives taxpayers more time to review income details, verify documents, and file accurate income tax returns. This helps reduce errors, avoid corrections, and ensure a smoother filing process.
2. Better TDS credit matching: Extra time allows TDS details to be updated and matched correctly with tax records. This helps taxpayers verify available credits and reduce the chances of mismatches before filing their return.

3. Reduced last-minute rush: A longer filing window helps taxpayers avoid heavy portal traffic and gives them more time to consult tax professionals if needed, making the income tax return filing process easier and less stressful.

   
   

What happens if the new deadline is missed? Penalties and restrictions

Late filing fee: If you miss the extended ITR filing deadline, you may have to pay a late filing fee under Section 234F. The fee can be up to Rs. 5,000, while taxpayers with a total income of up to Rs. 5 lakh may have to pay a maximum of Rs. 1,000.

Interest on unpaid tax: If you have any outstanding tax liability, interest may be charged under the applicable provisions of the Income Tax Act until the tax is fully paid.

Loss of tax benefits: Missing the deadline may result in the loss of certain benefits, such as carrying forward eligible capital or business losses to future financial years.

Delayed refunds and notices: Filing your return after the due date may delay the processing of eligible tax refunds. If you fail to file an ITR despite being required to do so, the Income Tax Department may also issue compliance notices.

Important note: Filing your ITR before the final deadline helps you avoid penalties, protects eligible tax benefits, and keeps your tax records compliant.

Important things to keep in mind while filing late return

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) after the due date, known as a belated return, is permissible but comes with certain implications. Here are key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Penalties for late filing

• Late filing fee: Under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act, a penalty is levied for filing returns after the due date. For the financial year 2025-26, the penalties are:
  • Rs. 1,000 if the total income is up to Rs. 5 lakh.
  • Rs. 5,000 if the total income exceeds Rs. 5 lakh.
• Interest on tax due: In addition to the late filing fee, interest under Section 234A is charged at 1% per month or part thereof on any unpaid tax amount from the original due date until the date of filing.

2. Loss of certain benefits

• Carry forward of losses: Filing a belated return disqualifies you from carrying forward specific losses (e.g., business or capital losses) to subsequent years, potentially increasing future tax liabilities.
• Interest on refunds: Delayed filing may result in the loss of interest on any tax refunds due, as the interest is calculated from the date of filing the return. 

3. Deadline for belated returns

• For the assessment year 2026-27, the deadline to file a belated return is 31 December 2026. If you discover errors after filing, you can file a revised return up to 31 March 2027 (the revised-return window was extended from 31 December to 31 March by Budget 2026). Section 234F late fee: Rs. 1,000 if total income is up to Rs. 5 lakh, Rs. 5,000 if above; interest under Section 234A applies at 1% per month on unpaid tax.

4. Revised returns

• If you discover any errors after filing an original or belated return, you can file a revised return up to 31 March 2027. Note that revisions filed after 31 December 2026 attract a prescribed fee (Rs. 1,000 if total income is up to Rs. 5 lakh; Rs. 5,000 otherwise) under the new Section 234I - revise before 31 December and no fee applies.

5. Compliance and legal implications

• Consistent late filing or non-filing can attract scrutiny from the Income Tax Department, leading to assessments and potential legal consequences. Timely filing ensures compliance and minimizes the risk of penalties or legal actions.

What's new for ITR filing in AY 2026-27

Advance tax due dates for FY 2026-27

According to Section 208 of the Income Tax Act, taxpayers with an estimated tax liability exceeding Rs. 10,000 must pay advance tax. However, senior citizens are eligible for certain exemptions from this requirement. This tax must be paid in four different instalments. Let’s see the schedule for FY 2025-26:

Taxpayers who fall under Sections 44AD and 44ADA (presumptive income) pay their entire advance tax in a single instalment, by 15 March of the financial year.

Essential tips for first-time ITR filers in 2026

As per the Income Tax Act, must file their returns by 31 July 2026 (salaried, ITR-1/ITR-2) or 31 August 2026 (non-audit ITR-3/ITR-4), unless the CBDT extends the due date. However, for first-time taxpayers, this task can seem daunting. But, by understanding basic tax laws, deductions, and exemptions, first-time filers can easily furnish their returns and remain compliant.

Let’s check out some essential tips that can help you accurately file income tax returns for FY 2025-26:

1. Total taxable income

First-time filers should calculate their total taxable income by subtracting tax deductions and exemptions from their gross income. Some common deductions available under Chapter VI-A of the Income Tax Act are:

• Health insurance premiums
• Home loans
• Education loans
• Donations
• Investments made in tax-saving instruments

Also, you can claim exemptions for allowances received like House Rent Allowance (HRA) and Leave Travel Allowance (LTA).

2. New vs. Old tax regime

While filing their income tax returns, taxpayers have a choice between the old and new tax regimes. It must be noted that the old tax regime offers several exemptions and deductions like HRA and those available under sections 80C, 80D, 80G, and more.

On the other hand, the new tax regime charges lower tax rates but offers fewer deductions and exemptions. The new tax regime was introduced in FY 2020-21 and has been the default option since FY 2023-24, unless the taxpayer opts for the old regime.

3. Form 16

For salaried individuals, Form 16 is important as it details the TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) deducted by the employer from the salary. Furthermore, it includes all the necessary information for filing an ITR. Usually, it is provided by the employer by late May or mid-June.

You must refer to Form 16 while filing your income tax returns, as it ensures you accurately report your income and claim any deductions you are eligible for. Additionally, Form 16 provides the TAN of your employer, which is necessary for filling out the ITR forms correctly.

4. Review of Form 26AS

For those unaware, Form 26AS is an annual tax statement. It details:

• Tax deducted/ collected on your behalf

  
  

  and

• Lists your various income sources

You must use this form to accurately fill out your income and tax details in your ITR form. Follow these steps to use Form 26AS while filing taxes:

• Download it from the income tax e-filing portal.
• Then, review the details of
  • Tax deducted at source (TDS)
  • Tax collected at source (TCS)
  • Any advance tax payments made throughout the year
• Compare these details with your financial records.
• If you find any discrepancy, report it to the relevant deductor for correction.

• Finally, use this verified information to file your return.

  
  

5. Annual information statement (AIS)

Like Form 26AS, AIS is another statement provided by the Income Tax Department to facilitate income tax return filing. It provides a comprehensive summary of your financial transactions, including TDS, TCS, interest, dividends, and stock market activities. AIS usually extends the information available in Form 26AS and helps ensure accurate tax filing.

6. Choosing ITR forms

It is worth stating that The Income Tax Department provides various ITR forms to cover multiple sources of income and taxpayer categories. Each form addresses:

• Specific types of income, such as salary, business profits, or capital gains and
• Different taxpayer types, like individuals, companies, or Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs)

Hence, while filing the ITR, it is important to select the correct form. By choosing the right form, you can accurately declare all your income types under appropriate heads and avoid processing delays.

7. Requirement of documents

You will need the following documents at the time of filing:

• PAN
• Aadhaar
• Form 16
• Interest certificates
• Annual Information Statement

• Form 26AS

  
  
• Details of capital gains, and

• Proof of tax-saving investments like insurance premiums and PPF contributions.

  
  

8. ITR Verification

After filing the ITR, it needs to be verified. This verification can be done:

• Online using Aadhaar OTP

  
  

  or

• Offline by sending a signed physical copy of ITR - V (Verification) to the Income Tax Department.

What are the penalties for missing the ITR deadline?

Missing the ITR filing deadline or the income tax return extended date can result in several penalties and repercussions. Firstly, as per Section 234F of the Income Tax Act, a late filing fee of Rs. 5,000 is imposed. However, if the total income is below Rs. 5 lakh, this penalty is reduced to Rs. 1,000.

Secondly, under Section 234A, interest on the unpaid tax amount is charged at 1% per month or part of the month from the due date until the return is filed. This significantly increases the tax liability, especially if a substantial amount is due. Also, you lose the benefit of carrying forward losses and offsetting them against your future income. This disqualification increases future tax liabilities.

How to file the missed returns for FY 2025-26

If you miss the original deadline for filing your Income Tax Return (ITR), you can still file a belated return by 31st December of the assessment year. However, if this deadline is also missed due to valid reasons, you may request the Income Tax Department to condone the delay.

Steps to File a Missed ITR:

1) Request for Condonation of Delay:

• Submit a request to the Income Tax Commissioner or the prescribed authority, explaining the reason for missing the deadline.
• The officer may approve your request based on the following conditions:
  • The claim is legitimate and valid.
  • There is a genuine hardship or strong merit in the case.
  • A refund is due because of excess tax deduction, TDS, advance tax, or self-assessment tax.
  • No other person is liable to assess the tax under the Income Tax Act.

2) Payment of Taxes & Interest:

• If you haven’t paid your taxes for FY 2025-26, you must clear the outstanding amount along with interest under Sections 234A, 234B, or 234C.
• Tax payment is mandatory even if the ITR filing is delayed.

3) Missed Filing Despite Tax Payment:

• If you have paid your taxes on time but failed to file your return, you cannot file a delayed return or request condonation.
• The Income Tax Department may issue a notice under Section 271F, imposing a penalty of up to ₹5,000.
• However, if you provide a valid reason, the officer may waive the penalty.

4) Legal Consequences of Not Filing ITR:

• The Income Tax Department may issue notices and impose penalties for failure to file returns.
• In extreme cases, prosecution could lead to imprisonment of up to seven years.

5) Responding to Notices:

• If you receive a notice, you must respond through the income tax e-filing portal and file your pending return.

6) Penalty for Under-Reporting Income:

• A penalty of up to 200% of the tax payable may be imposed for under-reporting income.
• If taxes are paid with interest but income has been under-reported, the assessing officer may waive the penalty.

Key reasons why you should not delay filing your ITR

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) promptly is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, timely submission avoids late fees and penalties, which can add a significant financial burden. Secondly, it helps maintain a good compliance record with the tax authorities, potentially simplifying future financial transactions or loan applications. Additionally, delaying your ITR can result in the loss of certain benefits and deductions, reducing your potential refunds. Filing on time also minimises the risk of facing scrutiny or audits from the tax department. Lastly, early filing ensures peace of mind, reducing stress and allowing you to manage your finances more effectively.

ITR Filing 2026: Things to Know Before Filing ITR Online

With the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing season underway for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27), it's essential for taxpayers to stay updated on key changes and requirements. Filing your ITR accurately and on time not only helps you avoid penalties but also ensures timely refunds and smooth financial planning. Here’s what you must know before filing your ITR online this year.

Who should file ITR?

Any individual whose gross total income exceeds the basic exemption limit must file an ITR. Even if your income is below the threshold, filing is recommended for those who wish to claim refunds, carry forward capital losses, or apply for visas or loans. Professionals, salaried employees, business owners, NRIs, and HUFs are all required to file, depending on income and asset conditions.

Changed tax slabs under the new tax regime

The new tax regime remains the default option in FY 2025-26, with streamlined slabs. Budget 2025 raised the Section 87A rebate to Rs. 60,000, making taxable income up to Rs. 12 lakh effectively tax-free under the new regime; salaried taxpayers also get a Rs. 75,000 standard deduction. Exemptions such as HRA and most Chapter VI-A deductions are, however, not available. Taxpayers with business or professional income who want the old regime must file Form 10-IEA before the due date; salaried taxpayers can simply select the old regime while filing their return.

Five must-do things before filing ITR online

1. Collect all income documents

Ensure you have Form 16, interest certificates, capital gains statements, and rent receipts. Include all income sources—salary, interest, capital gains, rent, and foreign income.

2. Understand and select correct ITR form

Choosing the correct ITR form based on your income type and residential status is critical. Filing with the wrong form may result in a defective return.

3. Link PAN with Aadhaar & ensure details match

Linking PAN with Aadhaar is mandatory. Mismatched details may lead to authentication failures during e-verification.

4. Check for exemptions and deductions

Review eligible deductions under Section 80C, 80D, 80G, and 80TTA to reduce tax liability. Declare tax-saving investments made on or before 31 March 2026 (the last day of FY 2025-26).

5. Enhanced I-T scrutiny through past ITR comparisons

The income tax department now compares previous years’ returns to flag discrepancies. Ensure all incomes, including passive ones, are disclosed accurately to avoid notices.

Conclusion

Filing your income tax returns (ITRs) on time is important to avoid penalties and interest charges. For FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27), taxpayers should file their returns within the applicable due dates notified by the CBDT. Missing this deadline results in a late fee of Rs. 5,000 (Rs. 1,000 if your taxable income is less than Rs. 5 lakhs), interest charges under section 234A, and disqualification from carrying forward losses. 

If you are filing an income tax return for the first time, you must use forms like Form 16, AIS, and Form 26AS for accurate reporting. Also, you must select the correct ITR form applicable to you and wisely choose between the old and new tax regimes.

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