The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the deadline to 15 September 2025, which was previously set for July 31, 2025.

What occurs if I don't meet this deadline?

Filling after September 15, 2025, results in a belated return and incurs a late fine.

₹5,000 if you make more than ₹5 lakh.

₹1,000 if your earnings are less than ₹5 lakh.

What if my return has to be revised?

You have until December 31, 2025, to submit a revised or belated return.

If you miss both, you can also file an updated return (ITR-U) until March 31, 2030, but there will be further penalties and requirements.

How about paying taxes?

Any self-assessment tax that is owed (that is, additional tax that you owe after TDS, etc.) must be paid by July 31, 2025, despite the extended return filing date.

Even if you file the return later, it is important to pay tax dues on time because interest under Section 234A will be applied to the amount that is not paid by that date.

What caused the extension of the ITR filing deadline?

The updated ITR forms were not promptly made available.

The e-filing portal took a while to completely activate its functionalities.

The Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS were showing delayed TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) data.

Taxpayers found it challenging to file accurate returns as a result, and many asked for additional time to prevent mistakes.

For those who anticipate refunds, what is the advantage?

The good news is that you may now receive up to 33% more interest on your income tax refund if you qualify for one!

Due to Section 244A interest is computed as of April 1.

Greater days equals greater interest because the interest period begins in April, even though the reporting date has been delayed.

Take note: You need to include this refund interest in your ITR since it is taxed.

What has changed in the process of filing?

A new Excel-based offline tool was introduced by the Income Tax Department to facilitate filing for those utilizing ITR-1 and ITR-4.

The process is as follows: You fill out your return offline in Excel.

A JSON file is produced by the utility.

The JSON file is uploaded to the e-filing portal.

Your return is verified and submitted by the portal.

ITR Filing Deadline Extended to September 15: Key Updates You Should Know

What occurs if I don't meet this deadline?

Author: Anushka Singh