Tax Relief for Millions as Income Tax Audit Deadline Extended to October 31
CBDT extends audit report deadline by a month amid flood disruptions and taxpayer concerns.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) announced on September 25, 2025, a one-month extension for the submission of tax audit reports for the 2024-25 fiscal year (Assessment Year 2025-26), shifting the deadline from September 30 to October 31. This decision responds to representations from professional associations, including chartered accountant bodies, highlighting disruptions caused by floods and other natural calamities that have hampered business and professional activities across parts of India. The extension aims to alleviate the difficulties faced by taxpayers and practitioners in meeting the original deadline.
According to the CBDT, the Income Tax e-filing portal has been operating seamlessly, with over 7.57 crore income tax returns (ITRs) filed as of September 23, 2025. Additionally, approximately 4.02 lakh tax audit reports were uploaded by September 24, including 60,000 on that day alone. The board clarified that the portal remains stable and fully functional, dismissing claims of technical glitches impacting audit report submissions. Earlier, on September 15, the department had extended the ITR filing deadline for individuals not requiring audits by one day due to minor portal issues, resulting in 7.54 crore ITRs filed by September 16, with 1.28 crore taxpayers paying self-assessment tax.
The extension reflects the CBDT’s responsiveness to external challenges, including legal submissions before high courts addressing the impact of natural disasters on compliance timelines. By granting additional time, the department ensures taxpayers and professionals can complete audits without undue pressure, particularly in regions affected by floods. This move underscores the government’s commitment to balancing regulatory compliance with practical considerations.
Also Read: ITR Deadline Extended As Govt Faces Portal Crash
The extended deadline provides significant relief to taxpayers and chartered accountants, enabling thorough preparation of audit reports. As the Income Tax Department continues to enhance its digital infrastructure, the smooth operation of the e-filing portal supports efficient tax compliance, reinforcing India’s efforts to streamline fiscal processes while addressing unforeseen challenges faced by its citizens.
Also Read: Chhattisgarh Sets March 2026 Deadline to End Naxal Threat
