Last updated on: July 29, 2025
The due date for filing Income Tax Return (ITR) in India for individual taxpayers (not requiring audit) is typically July 31st of the assessment year following the financial year for which income is reported. For the financial year 2023–24 (assessment year 2024–25), the ITR filing deadline is July 31, 2024. Taxpayers who require accounts auditing, such as businesses or professionals, generally have until October 31. Delays in filing may attract late fees, interest, and may limit the ability to carry forward certain losses. However, the government may extend these deadlines occasionally due to specific circumstances. Timely filing ensures compliance, smooth processing of refunds, and avoids penalties, making it crucial for taxpayers to be aware of the applicable ITR due date each year.
Filing your income tax return (ITR) on time is crucial for every Indian taxpayer. With 2025 approaching, it is essential to understand the official income tax return due date, steps for timely filing, possible consequences for missing the deadline, and how these dates may affect your financial planning. In this detailed guide, you will find all practical aspects you need to know about ITR due dates in 2025. We will use direct examples, practical tips, and address common queries to make your tax season stress free.
The due date for filing your ITR depends on your taxpayer category such as individual, HUF, companies, or firms. For the assessment year 2025-26, the standard due dates as per Income Tax Department norms are:
Did you know? Filing within the due date also allows you to carry forward losses under house property, business, or capital gains, which cannot be done with a belated ITR.
Filing ITR is not limited only to those with high incomes or businesses. In India, you need to file an income tax return if:
Any income from the following sources is reportable:
Certain senior citizens above eighty years with only pension and interest income can get exemptions from ITR filing, but only if the bank has deducted TDS correctly and as per Indian tax laws.
Expert insight: Always verify if you fall under the mandatory ITR scope, even if TDS is already deducted, as you may need to claim a refund or report additional sources.
Online filing or e filing of your IT return is now standard practice in India. Here are the main steps:
Common documents you will need include:
Most taxpayers are required to file their income tax returns online unless specifically exempted. Only certain super senior citizens can file a physical return in 2025.
Did you know? You can use online marketplaces to compare tax filing services from multiple companies in one place for best prices and expert support.
Question: Can I file my ITR after the due date? Answer: Yes, but it will be considered as a belated return and you may be liable to pay a late fee under Section 234F and miss out on some benefits.
Missing the deadline may result in:
Yes. Filing a nil return is possible and sometimes advisable for documentation, loan, or visa purposes.
Expert insight: Even with zero income, regular ITR filing builds a strong financial record and CIBIL score for future needs.
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Legal compliance and peace of mind | Penalties for delay |
Smooth refund processing | May need professional help for complex cases |
Proof of income and address | Some rules may change every year |
Required for financial transactions | Last minute rush can lead to mistakes |
Taxpayer Category | Due Date | Key Points |
---|---|---|
Individuals, HUF (non audit cases) | 31 July 2025 | Salaried, pensioners, freelance professionals |
Businesses, Firms, Companies (audit required) | 31 October 2025 | Includes LLPs, companies, partnership firms |
Assessees with transfer pricing/Section 92E | 30 November 2025 | International transactions, specified reporting |
Question: What is the penalty for late filing of ITR in AY 2025 26? Answer: The penalty ranges from ₹1000 to ₹5000, depending on your total income and how late you file.
Question: Can I get a refund after filing a late ITR? Answer: Yes, refunds are still possible for belated returns but processing may be delayed.
Radhika, a Mumbai based marketing executive, always files her ITR before the July deadline. She once missed the due date due to travel and filed a belated return. Not only was she charged a penalty, but her tax refund was delayed by three months. Since then, she uses calendar reminders and online marketplaces to select the right tax filing service for best price and compliance support.
Did you know? Many taxpayers receive faster refunds by prevalidating their bank account and filing early, especially when using ITR 1 or ITR 2 on the e filing portal.
Timely updates and reminders can help you avoid missing deadlines:
Yes, under certain situations such as natural disasters, pandemic, or technical glitches in the income tax portal, the CBDT may extend due dates. Always monitor official circulars.
Question: How can NRIs file their ITR? Answer: NRIs can file online using the regular e filing portal. Choose the ITR form based on your source of income and ensure to disclose global income if residential status demands.
Expert insight: Keep all original documents for at least six years after assessment to address any tax queries or scrutiny.
Individuals whose tax liability exceeds Rs 10,000 per year, including freelancers and business owners, must pay advance tax in four installments. Missing these may attract interest under Section 234B and 234C.
A belated return is what you file after the regular due date but before 31st December 2025. If you spot errors in your return, you can file a revised return within this same time frame.
Question: I have two jobs in FY 2024 25. Which ITR form to use? Answer: Usually ITR 1 or ITR 2, depending on other incomes and if you have capital gains or income from more than one house property.
1. When is the last date for filing income tax return for AY 2025 26 for salaried individuals?
The standard due date is 31st July 2025.
2. Can I revise my ITR after filing?
Yes, ITR filed on or before 31st July can be revised up to 31st December 2025 for AY 2025 26.
3. What happens if I miss the ITR deadline by a few days?
You can still file a belated return but penalty and interest may apply.
4. Are online marketplaces reliable for comparing ITR filing services?
Yes, they allow you to compare packages and get expert help as per your requirements, all in one place.
5. Is Aadhaar linking mandatory for e filing?
Yes, your PAN and Aadhaar must be linked for successful e filing in 2025.
6. Will I get a notice if I do not file ITR by the due date?
You may receive a notice and be subject to penalties or scrutiny if you are a mandatory filer.
7. How much is the late fee for ITR for incomes below Rs 5 lakh?
The maximum late fee is Rs 1000 for total income up to Rs 5 lakh.
8. Can I claim deductions in a belated return?
Yes, most deductions can still be claimed, but some losses cannot be carried forward.
9. What is the best time to file ITR to avoid server issues?
Early mornings or after office hours, and preferably before the last week of July.
10. How can I check ITR refund status?
Login to the e filing portal and click on ‘Refund Status’ or check via your bank.
Source:
Income Tax Department Official Portal - incometax.gov.in
CBDT Notifications and Circulars
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Written by Prem Anand, a content writer with over 10+ years of experience in the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance sectors.
Prem Anand is a seasoned content writer with over 10+ years of experience in the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance sectors. He has a strong command of industry-specific language and compliance regulations. He specializes in writing insightful blog posts, detailed articles, and content that educates and engages the Indian audience.
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