Income tax return filing deadline extended to September 15
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the due date for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for assessment year 2025–26 from July 31, 2025, to September 15, 2025.
In a press release dated May 27, 2025, CBDT cited extensive structural and content revisions in the notified ITR forms as the reason for the extension. These revisions aim to simplify compliance, enhance transparency, and improve reporting accuracy.
Income Tax Return Filing Deadline Extended to September 15: CBDT Announces Key Changes
In a move that comes as a relief to millions of taxpayers, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has announced an extension of the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing deadline to September 15, 2025. This extension applies to specific categories of taxpayers and is part of the government’s broader effort to ease tax compliance and adapt to changes in filing processes.
The announcement was made amid ongoing feedback from tax professionals and citizens, especially in light of delays in issuing updated forms and the need for more time to reconcile financial documents.
Why Was the ITR Deadline Extended?
The extension was primarily driven by multiple factors:
- Revised ITR Forms: The CBDT recently notified new Income Tax Return forms for the Assessment Year 2025-26. Many professionals requested more time to become familiar with the updated requirements and changes in disclosure norms.
- Technical Glitches: Some taxpayers have reported intermittent issues on the income tax e-filing portal. While improvements have been made over the past year, these glitches occasionally delay the submission process.
- Overlapping Compliance Deadlines: The original July 31 deadline coincided with other financial compliance requirements, creating a burden for individual taxpayers and small businesses. The extended date offers much-needed breathing room.
Who Benefits From the Extension?
The September 15, 2025 deadline applies primarily to certain categories of taxpayers, including:
- Individuals and entities not requiring audit of accounts under the Income Tax Act
- Professionals such as freelancers, consultants, and salaried individuals with additional sources of income
- Small businesses and firms with non-audited financials
Taxpayers whose accounts are subject to audit or who need to furnish reports under international transactions may still have different deadlines. Always consult with a qualified tax professional for case-specific advice.
What Are the Key Changes Introduced by CBDT?
In addition to extending the deadline, the CBDT has also announced important updates for the filing process this year:
1. New ITR Forms With Simplified Disclosures
The new forms are designed to reduce ambiguity, especially around capital gains, foreign assets, and cryptocurrency transactions. The goal is to improve transparency while reducing the chances of filing errors.
2. Digital Verification Push
The government is emphasizing Aadhaar-based OTP and net banking e-verification methods, reducing the need for physical document submissions. Taxpayers must ensure their bank accounts and Aadhaar details are updated.
3. AI-Based Assistance and Pre-Filled Data
The ITR portal now features improved pre-filled data for salaried individuals, including salary, TDS, and interest income. This AI-enabled feature aims to make filing quicker and more accurate.
4. Increased Penalties for Late Filing
While the deadline has been extended, taxpayers are reminded that filing after September 15 may attract penalties ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 under Section 234F. Additionally, delayed filings could affect eligibility for certain deductions and refunds.
Tips to File Your ITR Smoothly
Here are some best practices to follow when filing your return:
- Gather all necessary documents early, including Form 16, interest certificates, investment proofs, and Form 26AS.
- Reconcile Form 26AS and AIS (Annual Information Statement) with your bank and income data to avoid mismatches.
- Use the income tax portal’s pre-filled features but cross-check all data carefully.
- Declare all income sources, including freelance gigs, rental income, and capital gains.
- Don’t delay e-verification after filing your return—it is a crucial final step to complete the process.
Conclusion
The extension of the ITR filing deadline to September 15, 2025, is a welcome move for taxpayers looking for more time to accurately report their income and understand new requirements. With updated forms, easier digital tools, and a responsive e-filing portal, the government is working toward a smoother tax filing experience.
However, taxpayers must not wait until the last minute. The earlier you file, the better your chances of receiving timely refunds and avoiding unnecessary penalties. Consult a tax professional if you’re unsure about how the changes affect you.
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