The deadline for submitting Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2025–26 has come to an end. However, taxpayers who missed the due date can still file their returns with a penalty until December 31, 2025.

Earlier, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) had extended the deadline for filing income tax returns (ITRs) for Assessment Year (AY) 2025-26 by one more day, moving it from September 15 (Monday) to September 16 (Tuesday), according to an official notification.

Penalty

Late fee under Section 234F: Rs 5,000 if filed between September 16 and December 31, 2025. For taxpayers with income below Rs 5 lakh, the fine is Rs 1,000.

Interest on unpaid tax: 1% per month under Sections 234A, 234B, and 234C.

Higher risk of scrutiny: Late filers may attract notices or tighter monitoring.

Steps to File a Belated ITR Online

- Visit incometax.gov.in and sign in using your PAN (User ID) and password.

- Navigate to 'File Income Tax Return'

- Click on e-File > Income Tax Returns > File Income Tax Return.

Select the Relevant Assessment Year

- Choose Assessment Year 2025–26 (for FY 2024–25).

Choose the Filing Type

- Select 'Belated Return' under Section 139(4).

Fill in the ITR Form

Choose the appropriate ITR form based on your income sources:

ITR-1 (Sahaj): For salaried individuals with income up to ₹50 lakh.

ITR-2: For individuals with income from multiple sources or capital gains.

ITR-3: For individuals with income from business or profession.

Enter Income and Tax Details

Provide accurate information about your income, deductions, and taxes paid.

Pay Any Outstanding Tax

Calculate and pay any due tax along with applicable interest and penalties.

E-Verify Your Return

Complete the process by e-verifying your return using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or other available methods.

The department said more than 7 crore returns had already been filed as of September 15.

In May, the government had already extended the deadline for non-audit cases from July 31 to September 15. The department said the surge in filings reflects stronger compliance and a widening taxpayer base.