Income Tax Return Filing Deadline Extended to September 15 for AY 2025–26
The Income Tax Department has extended the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for Assessment Year 2025–26 from July 31 to September 15, 2025, for taxpayers who are not required to undergo audit.
This extension applies to individuals, salaried employees, small businesses, and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) whose accounts do not require auditing.
The decision was taken after observing a surge in the number of authorized ITRs being filed, as well as last-minute changes in the ITR filing system, as reported by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).
Key Highlights:
- New deadline: September 15, 2025
- Applicable for ITR-1 and ITR-4 filers (individuals, small businesses)
- Taxpayers earning income up to ₹1.25 lakh from dividend, mutual funds, interest, or capital gains are eligible to file ITR-1
- No audit required for such individuals
As per CBDT, this move will benefit those who:
- Had difficulty adapting to recent system updates
- Needed more time to review exemptions and tax-saving investments
- Do not fall under audit-related compliance
The government has also simplified filing for those using sections 80C, 80D, and 80G for deductions. Those with capital gains up to ₹1.25 lakh, or total income up to ₹50 lakh, can file simplified forms.
ITR Filing Stats & Updates:
- More than 12.5% of ITRs filed now fall under simplified categories
- Government systems are being optimized for quicker verification and refunds
Taxpayers are encouraged to file early to avoid last-minute glitches and ensure timely processing of refunds.
