📢 Introduction
In a significant move to facilitate a smoother tax filing process, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the Financial Year (FY) 2024–25 (Assessment Year 2025–26) from July 31 to September 15, 2025. This extension aims to accommodate the recent structural changes in ITR forms and ensure system readiness for taxpayers.
ITR FIling deadline extended upto sep 15th 2025.
📅 Revised ITR Filing Timeline
| Event | Original Date | Revised Date |
|---|---|---|
| ITR Filing Deadline (Non-Audit Cases) | July 31, 2025 | September 15, 2025 |
| TDS Statement Filing Deadline | May 31, 2025 | No Change |
| TDS Credit Reflection Start Date | Early June 2025 | No Change |
📝 Reasons Behind the Extension
The CBDT cited several reasons for the extension:
- Extensive Changes in ITR Forms: The ITR forms for AY 2025–26 have undergone significant revisions to enhance transparency and simplify compliance.
- System Readiness: Additional time is required to update and test the e-filing utilities to accommodate the new forms.
- Stakeholder Feedback: The extension addresses concerns raised by taxpayers and professionals regarding the readiness of the filing systems.
This decision aims to facilitate a seamless and convenient filing experience for taxpayers.
👥 Who Benefits from the Extension?
The extension primarily benefits:
- Salaried Individuals: Who are not required to get their accounts audited.
- Small Business Owners and Professionals: Operating as proprietorships or partnerships without audit requirements.
- These taxpayers now have additional time to gather necessary documents and ensure accurate filing.
💡 Advantages of the Extended Deadline
1. Additional Time for Compliance
Taxpayers have more time to gather necessary documents, reconcile income details, and ensure accurate filing.
2. Reduced Errors
The extension allows for thorough review, minimizing the risk of errors that could lead to notices or penalties.
3. Increased Refund Interest
Taxpayers eligible for refunds may receive approximately 33% more interest due to the extended period, as per Section 244A of the Income Tax Act.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the extended deadline, taxpayers should be cautious of the following errors:
- Incorrect ITR Form Selection: Ensure you choose the appropriate form based on your income sources.
- Omitting Income Sources: Report all income, including interest, dividends, and capital gains.
- Inaccurate HRA Claims: Provide valid rent receipts and agreements to substantiate House Rent Allowance claims.
- Neglecting AIS and Form 26AS: Cross-verify the Annual Information Statement and Form 26AS to ensure all TDS and income details are accurately reported.
- Missing Exempt Income: Even tax-exempt income, like interest from PPF, should be disclosed.
- Failure to Verify Return: After filing, verify your return electronically or physically to complete the process.
- Ignoring New Tax Provisions: Stay updated with changes introduced in the latest budget to ensure compliance.
🛠️ Steps to File Your ITR
- Gather Documents: Collect Form 16, interest certificates, investment proofs, and other relevant documents.
- Choose the Correct ITR Form: Select the appropriate form based on your income sources and category.
- Access the E-Filing Portal: Visit the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal to log in or register.
- Fill in the Details: Enter your income details, deductions, and tax payments accurately.
- Verify Information: Cross-check the information with AIS and Form 26AS to ensure accuracy.
- Submit and Verify: After submission, verify your return through Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by sending a signed physical copy to CPC, Bengaluru.
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