Income Tax Dept. Confirms ITR Filing Deadline Remains September 15

The Income Tax Department has reiterated that the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for Assessment Year (AY) 2025-26 remains September 15, 2025, debunking viral social media claims of a further extension to September 30. In a late-night post on X on September 14, the department labeled the circulating statement as "fake" and urged taxpayers to rely solely on official updates from @IncomeTaxIndia. The clarification comes amid heightened buzz as the final filing day approaches, with over 6 crore ITRs already submitted as of September 13, reflecting a 7.5% year-on-year growth from the 7.28 crore filed for AY 2024-25.

The original due date of July 31 was extended to September 15 in May due to extensive revisions in ITR forms notified in late April and early May, necessitating updates to filing utilities and backend systems. This applies to non-audit taxpayers, including individuals, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), and entities using ITR forms 1 to 4. Missing the deadline incurs penalties under Section 234F—Rs 5,000 if income exceeds Rs 5 lakh, or Rs 1,000 otherwise—plus 1% monthly interest on unpaid taxes under Section 234A. Belated returns can still be filed until December 31, 2025, but filers lose benefits like loss carry-forward and regime switching.

Recent complaints on social media highlighted glitches in tax payments, ITR uploads, and downloading Annual Information Statements (AIS) or Tax Information Statements (TIS). The department responded promptly, assuring that the e-filing portal is operational and recommending users clear browser caches or switch browsers. For persistent issues, taxpayers are advised to email details, including PAN and mobile numbers, to orm@cpc.incometax.gov.in or cmcpc_support@insight.gov.in, along with public IP addresses. A 24/7 helpdesk offers support via calls, live chats, WebEx sessions, and X interactions to facilitate smooth filings.

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The steady rise in ITR submissions underscores improving compliance and tax base expansion in India. As the deadline looms, the department encourages early action to avoid last-minute rushes and penalties, emphasizing pre-filled forms for simpler processing. Taxpayers facing hurdles are urged to seek official assistance promptly.

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