Why ITR Filing Deadline Was Extended By A Day
By Monday evening, the Income Tax Department said more than 7.3 crore returns had been filed
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Following technical issues that disrupted the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing process on the scheduled September 15 deadline, the government has extended the submission period by one day. The new deadline is now set for Tuesday, September 16.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) explained that the extension became necessary after the e-filing portal experienced disruptions during high-traffic periods. To resolve these technical problems, the portal underwent scheduled maintenance from 12 AM to 2:30 AM on Tuesday to update system utilities.
These technical difficulties coincided with a significant last-minute filing rush. By Monday evening, the Income Tax Department reported a record-breaking 7.3 crore returns submitted, with over 6.03 crore already verified and 4 crore processed.
Earlier that day, the department also provided a technical guide to assist taxpayers experiencing browser-related access issues.
This extension primarily benefits non-audit taxpayers, including salaried individuals, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), and small businesses or professionals operating under the presumptive taxation scheme.
Consequences Of Missing The ITR DeadlineIf taxpayers fail to meet the extended filing deadline, they still have the option to submit a belated return. For the current financial year, belated returns can be filed until December 31. However, Section 234F of the Income Tax Act imposes penalties for late submission. Those with total income up to Rs 5 lakh face a maximum penalty of Rs 1,000, while taxpayers earning above Rs 5 lakh must pay Rs 5,000.
Additionally, taxpayers with outstanding tax liabilities will incur interest charges on unpaid amounts for the duration of the delay.
ITR Online Filing Process GuideAccess the official e-filing portal using your PAN as username and password.
Select the "File Income Tax Return" section.
Choose Assessment Year 2025-26 and your appropriate filing category.
Select the suitable ITR form (ITR-1 to ITR-4 for non-audit cases).
Input your income information and verify pre-filled data including salary, TDS, and bank interest.
Carefully check all information, correct if necessary, and confirm details.
Settle any outstanding tax amounts before submission.
Submit your return online.
Complete e-verification within 30 days using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, bank account validation, or other authorized methods.