Missed ITR Deadline? What Happens Next And How You Can Still Pay
The government moved the ITR deadline from September 15 to September 16, 2025. Those who missed even this extended timeline still have an opportunity to file their returns.
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Filing a belated return by December 31 ensures compliance, although you may face a modest penalty
The government extended the Income Tax Returns (ITRs) submission deadline for Assessment Year 2025-26 from September 15 to September 16, 2025. If you missed this extended deadline, you still have an option to file your returns.
September 16 was the final date to submit ITRs for individuals not requiring an income tax audit. Filing after this date is categorized as a belated return.
Taxpayers can submit belated ITRs until December 31, 2025, providing an additional opportunity to fulfill legal obligations. However, this late filing comes with certain penalties and limitations.
What Are Belated Returns?
A belated return refers to any ITR submitted after the original deadline has passed. According to Income Tax regulations, taxpayers may file a belated return up to three months before the assessment year concludes or prior to assessment completion, whichever occurs first. For the current financial year, December 31, 2025, represents the final deadline.
Consequences Of Filing Late
There are several repercussions for missing the original deadline. Section 234F may impose a late filing fee.
Those with income up to Rs 5 lakh will incur a Rs 1,000 penalty, while individuals earning above Rs 5 lakh may face a Rs 5,000 charge.
Late filing can also postpone any refunds, invite increased scrutiny from the Income Tax Department, and generate interest charges, depending on tax due or advance tax deficiencies.
Certain losses, like unabsorbed depreciation or house property loss, remain eligible for carry-forward even with belated ITR filing, though other carry-forward benefits might be forfeited.
Effect On Old Tax Regime Selection
For taxpayers planning to select the old tax regime, missing the September 16 deadline could impact deductions. To claim benefits such as house rent allowance (HRA), home loan principal and interest under Section 80C, or leave travel allowance (LTA), the ITR must be submitted by the due date.
Filing late through a belated return might result in higher effective tax liability if these deductions are lost.
Therefore, if you've missed the September 16 deadline, file your ITR promptly. Submitting a belated return before December 31 will maintain your compliance, though a minor penalty may apply.