In a welcome update, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has officially extended the ITR last date 2025 for the financial year 2024–25 (Assessment Year 2025–26) from July 31 to September 15, 2025. This move offers timely relief to salaried employees, pensioners, NRIs, and other non-audit taxpayers facing challenges due to portal glitches, delayed ITR utilities, and widespread monsoon disruptions.
Let’s break down why this income tax return due date extension matters, what it means for you, and how to make the most of this extra time.
ITR Last Date 2025 Extension
ITR Last Date 2025 The extension wasn’t arbitrary—it was driven by real, systemic challenges:
– Delayed ITR Utilities: The updated ITR forms and schema were released nearly three months late, leaving taxpayers with a compressed filing window.
– Monsoon Disruptions: Heavy rains and flooding across several states disrupted access to documentation and professional services.
– Portal Glitches: Frequent crashes, session timeouts, and data mismatches on the income tax portal made filing a frustrating experience.
– Low Filing Volume: As of August 20, only 3.35 crore returns were filed—less than half of last year’s volume.
– New Format Complexity: Changes in financial statement formats and reconciliation requirements added to the compliance burden.
Who Benefits from the ITR File Extension?
ITR Last Date 2025 The revised deadline applies to:
– Salaried Individuals
– Pensioners
– NRIs
– HUFs (Hindu Undivided Families)
– Freelancers & Professionals not requiring audit
This does not apply to companies or entities whose accounts require auditing.
What Should Taxpayers Do Now?
The extension is a golden opportunity—but it’s not a reason to delay. Here’s what you should do:
1. Gather Documents: Salary slips, Form 16, TDS certificates, investment proofs, and bank statements.
2. Check Form 26AS & AIS: Ensure all income and TDS details are correctly reflected.
3. Calculate Self-Assessment Tax: Pay any pending tax before September 15 to avoid interest under Section 234A.
4. Use Reliable Software: Choose updated tax filing platforms that support the latest ITR schema.
5. File Early: Avoid last-minute portal overload and ensure faster refund processing.
What Happens If You Miss the Extended Deadline?
If you fail to file your return by September 15, 2025, you may face:
– Late Filing Penalty: ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 under Section 234F
– Loss of Interest on Refunds
– Ineligibility to Carry Forward Losses
– Interest on Tax Due: Under Section 234A if self-assessment tax is unpaid
Section 234A: Will You Be Charged Interest?
Good news! Since the due date under Section 139(1) has been officially extended, interest under Section 234A will not apply if you file your return and pay your self-assessment tax by September 15, 2025.
This interpretation is supported by past Supreme Court rulings and CBDT circulars, including Circular No. 6/2025.
Filing Trends & Stats
| Metric | Value (as of Aug 30, 2025) |
| Total ITRs Filed | 4.18 crore |
| Verified Returns | 3.96 crore |
| Returns Processed | 2.59 crore |
| Previous Year Total Filings | 9.1 crore |
The current pace of processing is slow, and experts believe another extension may be considered if issues persist.
What Experts & Associations Are Saying
Several professional bodies, including the Chandigarh Chartered Accountants Taxation Association (CCATAX), have formally appealed for an extension of the ITR last date 2025, citing persistent portal glitches, delayed release of ITR utilities, monsoon disruptions, and increased compliance pressure due to revised reporting formats.
– Delayed rollout of ITR utilities
– Technical issues on the portal
– Reduced working days due to festivals
– Format changes by ICAI impacting audit preparation
Pro Tips for Smooth Filing
– Use pre-filled data from the portal to avoid manual errors
– Reconcile Form 26AS with AIS before filing
– File using updated ITR software
– Keep a copy of the acknowledgment receipt
– Pay self-assessment tax before filing to avoid interest
FAQ’S
What is the last date for ITR 2025?
The last date to file Income Tax Returns (ITR) for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26) is September 15, 2025 for non-audit taxpayers.
What happens if I miss the ITR filing deadline?
If you miss the ITR filing deadline, you may face penalties up to ₹5,000, interest on unpaid taxes, delayed refunds, and loss of key tax benefits
What if I skip filing ITR?
If you skip filing your ITR, you may face penalties up to ₹5,000, interest on unpaid taxes, delayed refunds, loss of carry-forward benefits, and in serious cases, prosecution for tax evasion.
Final Thoughts: A Welcome Window of Relief
The income tax return due date extension is more than just a calendar change—it’s a lifeline for millions of taxpayers navigating a complex filing season. With technical glitches, delayed documentation, and evolving formats, this extra time allows for accurate, stress-free compliance.
But don’t wait till the last minute. Use this window wisely to file early, avoid penalties, and ensure faster refunds.
Disclaimer
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