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News Topical, Digital Desk : Income Tax Return: The government extended the deadline for filing income tax returns by one day for the assessment year 2025-26, from September 15th to September 16th, 2025. The reason behind this was to address technical glitches and provide relief to taxpayers. However, if you still haven't filed your ITR, there's no need to worry, as you still have a chance.
What options do taxpayers have now?
If taxpayers haven't filed their ITR within the deadline, they can file it with a late fee until December 31, 2025. The Income Tax Department provides additional time as per the rules, but this is subject to a penalty.
According to the rules, ITR can be filed up to three months before the end of the assessment year or until its completion, whichever is earlier. This year, the deadline is December 31, 2025.
Late filing rules
Under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act, individuals with annual income exceeding ₹5 lakh (500,000) will be subject to a maximum penalty of ₹5,000 for a belated return. Those with income up to ₹5 lakh (500,000) will be required to pay a maximum late fee of ₹1,000. This means that if an ITR is not filed within the stipulated time limit, the late fee can range from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000, depending on the income level.
Another important thing
Late filing of ITR can also delay tax refunds. It can also sometimes come under scrutiny by the Income Tax Department, increasing the risk of additional scrutiny. Another thing to note is that if you have tax dues but haven't filed your income tax return, you'll be charged 1% interest on the outstanding amount under Section 234A of the Income Tax Act.
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