Income Tax Return Filing Due Date Sept 15, 2025 – Don’t Miss Out!

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) on time is one of the most important financial responsibilities for taxpayers in India. Missing the deadline can lead to penalties, interest, and complications with your tax records. Every year, the Income Tax Department of India sets specific due dates by which individuals and businesses must submit their returns.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Income Tax Return filing due date for the Financial Year (FY) 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025-26). We will explain the due dates, consequences of delay, how to file, and tips to avoid penalties — all written in simple, easy-to-understand language, optimized for SEO.

What Is Income Tax Return (ITR)?

An Income Tax Return is a document where you report your income, expenses, deductions, and tax payments to the government. Based on this, the Income Tax Department calculates whether you owe additional tax or are eligible for a refund.

Filing ITR is mandatory for individuals and entities earning above certain income thresholds, and it helps maintain your financial transparency.

Income Tax Return Filing Due Dates for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)

For the financial year 2024-25 (1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025), the Income Tax Department has specified different due dates depending on the type of taxpayer and audit requirements.

Explanation of Categories

1. Individual and HUF (Non-Audit)

Individuals or Hindu Undivided Families whose accounts are not subject to audit must file their returns by 31st July 2025.

2. Businesses & Professionals (Audit Cases)

Taxpayers who are required to get their accounts audited under Income Tax law or any other law must file returns by 30th September 2025.

3. Transfer Pricing Cases

Taxpayers involved in international transactions or specified domestic transactions need to file by 30th November 2025.

4. Companies and Other Entities

Companies, trusts, and other entities must file by 31st October 2025.

5. Revised or Belated Returns

If you miss the initial deadline, you can still file a belated return or revise your return by 31st March 2026 (extended from the usual December 31st deadline).

Why Is Filing ITR On Time Important?

1. Avoid Penalties: The Income Tax Act imposes penalties of up to ₹10,000 for late filing.

2. Interest on Tax Due: If you owe taxes and file late, you pay interest under Section 234A.

3. Carry Forward Losses: Losses from business or capital gains can only be carried forward if ITR is filed on time.

4. Loan and Visa Applications: Banks and immigration authorities often ask for ITR copies as proof of income.

5. Avoid Notice and Scrutiny: Timely filing reduces the chance of tax notices or scrutiny.

6. Claim Refunds: Early filing speeds up refund processing.

What Happens If You Miss the Due Date?

• Late Filing Fees: Under Section 234F, a penalty of ₹5,000 if filed after the due date but before December 31; ₹10,000 if filed after December 31.

• No Carry Forward of Losses: Losses from business or house property can’t be carried forward if ITR is late.

• Interest Charges: Interest on outstanding tax under Section 234A, at 1% per month.

• Delayed Refunds: Refunds will be delayed.

• Legal Trouble: Persistent late filing may invite penalties or prosecution.

How to File Your Income Tax Return?

Step 1: Collect Documents

• PAN Card

• Aadhaar Card

• Form 16 (salary certificate)

• Form 26AS (tax credit statement)

• Bank statements

• Investment proofs

• Details of other income (rental, capital gains, etc.)

Step 2: Choose the Correct ITR Form

• ITR-1: For salaried individuals with income up to ₹50 lakh.

• ITR-2: For individuals with income from capital gains or foreign assets.

• ITR-3, ITR-4, etc., for businesses and professionals.

Step 3: File Online on the Income Tax Department Website

• Visit incometax.gov.in

• Register or log in with your credentials.

• Fill out the relevant ITR form.

• Upload necessary documents.

• Verify using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by sending a signed ITR-V.

  

Step 4: Verify Your Return

Verification is mandatory for the return to be processed. You can verify electronically or by sending a physical signed copy to CPC Bangalore.

Tips for Timely ITR Filing

• Start Early: Don’t wait till the last day.

• Keep Documents Ready: Maintain all proofs and forms.

• Double Check Entries: Avoid errors or mismatches.

• Use Professional Help: Consult CA or tax experts if unsure.

• Track Status: Use the e-filing portal to check refund or processing status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I file ITR after the due date?
Yes, you can file a belated return before 31st March 2026, but late fees and interest may apply.

Q2. Is ITR filing mandatory for everyone?
No, only if your income exceeds the exemption limit or if you want to claim a refund.

Q3. What is the penalty for late filing?
Penalty ranges between ₹1,000 and ₹10,000 depending on how late you file.

Q4. What documents do I need for filing?
PAN, Aadhaar, Form 16, bank statements, investment proofs, and other income documents.

Q5. Can I file ITR offline?
No, ITR filing must be done online via the Income Tax Department’s portal.

Conclusion

Filing your Income Tax Return on or before the due date is crucial to maintain a smooth financial life and avoid penalties. For the FY 2024-25, individuals have until 31st July 2025, while businesses and audit cases have respective extended deadlines.

Be proactive in organizing your tax documents, choosing the right ITR form, and submitting your return early. This will not only save you from last-minute hassles but also ensure compliance with the Income Tax laws.

If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to seek advice from tax professionals — timely filing always pays off!